Livestock management systems and methods

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock, such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods in which users, such as producers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers, are brought together through shared information and improved communication. Users may access one or more applications, tools, and systems to increase the value of each animal, monitor and track each animal, and improve the efficiency of their operation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/071,437, filed Feb. 7, 2002, now abandoned and incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock,such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, thisinvention relates to systems and methods in which members of thelivestock production chain, such as producers, feedlot managers,packers, and retailers, are brought together through an Internet-basedplatform which integrates information, technology-based tools, andelectronic commerce designed to improve communication throughout thelivestock industry and to provide systems and methods for trackinganimal performance, creating increased value, and improving overalloperational efficiency and quality.

The livestock industry is a multi-billion dollar business. Beginning atthe producer or ranch level, owners typically raise animals until theyare a certain age and weight. Livestock owners sell a majority of theiranimals via local auction sale barns or through order buyers. Sometimesthe livestock are purchased by buyers acting on behalf of feedlots orstocker operations. After sorting and commingling the animals, which mayoccur several times, the animals are sold to the feedlots or stockeroperations. Typically, all animals eventually end up at feedlots (soldor under retained ownership) where they are grown to selling weight.Finally, the livestock are sold to packers (e.g., a slaughterhouse) forharvesting and delivery to retail and food service distributors.Throughout this process, the livestock industry must meet consumerdemands for quality, consistency, animal welfare, cost, and convenience.

Typically, producers, such as ranchers, may enroll in branded beef ormarketing programs to increase their livestock's revenue potential. Abranded beef or marketing program typically requires that the animalsare processed according to specific guidelines. However, there is nostandard method for verifying that a rancher has complied with theprogram's guidelines. Typically, branded beef programs are verified byverbal acknowledgment, which at times may cause distrust amongstproducers and buyers.

In conjunction with the lack of verification capabilities, there is aneed for monitoring and tracking animals as they move through the supplychain. For example, during the auctioning phase, it is typical for theanimals to commingle. The animals may be commingled at assimilationsites and then later sorted for shipment to customers as a truckload.Once the animals commingle, they lose their identity, and with eachsubsequent commingling, owners and buyers possess less information abouteach individual animal. Therefore, due to commingling and otherpractices of conventional livestock marketing, even the healthiestanimal becomes an anonymous commodity. This creates a need for moreefficient and more humane sorting, transportation, handling, monitoring,and tracking methods.

As a result of losing information on each animal, such as a calf'svaccination and health history, the cost of healthcare for animalsincreases. For example, without vaccination histories on individualanimals, feedlot managers may vaccinate all the animals upon arrival totheir facility to minimize sickness and death. With vaccination andhealth histories for each animal along with current status such asweight and temperature, feedlot managers may more appropriately treateach animal with a specific health regiment.

Typically, feedlot managers feed the animals until the animals are attheir optimal selling weight. The feedlot typically includes a multitudeof pens that are utilized to confine the animals during their finalgrowth phase. During the final growth phase, each pen is provided with agiven amount of feed per day. The animals gain weight at different ratesand there is a need for identifying the optimal time for selling them topackers. It is also difficult to access performance records of variousfeedlots. Feedlot managers may desire to compare operational andperformance parameters of their feedlots with other feedlots.

In addition, many people, such as cowhands and feedlot personnel, arerequired to attend to the animals at ranches and feedlots. These peopleprovide valuable insight by relying on personal experiences, visualobservations, and measurements. However, there is a growing shortage ofthese people in the industry.

Information is as critical to the livestock industry as it is to anyother business. Members of the livestock production chain needinformation such as complete weather reports, commodity and futuresprices, performance data on each animal, breaking industry news, andin-depth analyses by industry experts. They also require recommendationsand insight from experts, such as veterinarians, processing crews, etc.Unfortunately, most livestock owners lose valuable time consultingmultiple sources to obtain the necessary information andrecommendations.

Other individuals have attempted to solve these problems. For example,Pratt U.S. Pat. No. 5,673,647 and Pratt U.S. Pat. No. 6,000,361 describean automated method and system for providing individual animalelectronic identification, measurement and value based management ofcattle in a large cattle feedlot. In the '647 and '361 patents, Prattdescribes a process wherein a computer stores individual animalmeasurement, performance and location data, which is used by managementto select animals for shipment from the feedlot for slaughter at theoptimum time.

As a result, livestock management systems and methods have beendeveloped in which members of the livestock production chain may accessa central database and application-specific programs via the Internet.

These livestock management systems and methods provide communication andintegration between specific applications and tools, such as acertification system, a tracking system, a compliance enforcementsystem, an adaptive reasoning system, a sorting system, a geneticsimprovement system, an environmental management system, an adaptivelogistics system, a supply and demand management system, an electroniccommerce system, an integrated risk management system, and a consumervalue system. These systems improve communication, provide means totrack animal performance, create incremental value, and improve overallefficiency that results in a safer and more economical meat supply.

SUMMARY

This and other objects of the invention are accomplished in accordancewith the principles of the present invention by providing systems andmethods for managing livestock.

This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock,such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, thisinvention relates to systems and methods in which users, such asproducers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers,are brought together through shared information and improvedcommunication. Users may access one or more applications, tools, and/orsystems to increase the value of each animal, monitor and track eachanimal, and improve the efficiency of their operation.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with acertification system to differentiate animals by collectingcertification information on animals from conception to consumption.Collecting certification information may allow users to participate inbeef marketing programs, which may increase the revenue potential of ananimal. Beef marketing programs may include branded beef programs or anyother marketing programs. The certification system may assist a user inselecting a beef marketing program best suited to the user's operation.Upon selecting a beef marketing program, the user may be provided withthe program's requirements and may be instructed on how to meet therequirements. Upon completion of a program, the user may receive anotification. The notification may include a valuation or rating for theuser's animal. The notification may also qualify the value ofrecommended procedures and treatments through valuation of a seller'scosts and a buyer's benefits.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with atracking system to monitor the growth and performance of an animal fromconception to consumption. By implementing various devices andequipment, the tracking system may be used to document any processes andtreatments performed, medical history, average daily weight gain, andany other suitable tracking information in different environments (e.g.,feedlots, ranches, backgrounders, etc.). The tracking system may promotethe sharing of information and building of relationships between users.The tracking system may provide a safer and thorough approach fortracking the supply of animal products.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with acompliance enforcement system to ensure that a user is followingspecific requirements for a branded beef or marketing program. Thecompliance enforcement system may acquire information from one or moresources, such as other systems, to verify the compliance of the user.Distributors, experts, or any other suitable person may enter complianceinformation. For example, a veterinarian may notify the complianceenforcement system when a user has purchased a vaccine. The entry of thepurchase may indirectly confirm participation in a program where thatvaccine is a prerequisite.

Compliance may also be determined by corresponding the purchases ofproducts and services with the program requirements of the program(e.g., marketing, branded beef, etc.) that the user has selected. Uponpassing a compliance screening and meeting the program requirements, theuser may be entitled to incentives. The compliance enforcement systemmay provide the user with a compliance rating. In some embodiments, thecompliance enforcement system may evaluate the performance of theexpert, such as a veterinarian.

Some embodiments may provide a user with a data transactions system toensure the communication of livestock-related information. In someembodiments, the data transactions system may differentiate informationinto such groups as privileged and private to share information withother users of the supply chain. The data transactions system may assignan access indicator to information entered or to be entered into thecentral database. The data transactions system may also differentiateinformation to protect the identity of the owner. In some embodiments,the data transactions system may provide users with an opportunity tolog in. In approaches where users log in, the data transactions systemmay use the log in information to retrieve the user's status andaccessibility during the data transaction process. The data transactionssystem may use user names or access codes (e.g., CiN numbers or anyother suitable identification) to allow data service providers,veterinarians, organizations, and other affiliated data entry personnelto input data without compromising the security of the animal owner.

In some embodiments, data transactions system may also provide userswith a notification feature. In some embodiments, data transactionssystem may allow the user to select particular information to bedelivered to other users, such as buyers, veterinarians, organization,or any other suitable user.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with anadaptive reasoning system to simulate logic, rules, and/or goodpractices used by experts in the livestock industry. The adaptivereasoning system may collect adaptive reasoning information using, forexample, a data acquisition system. Adaptive reasoning information mayinclude animal observations, sensor measurements, or any other suitableinformation relating to adaptive reasoning. The adaptive reasoningsystem may retrieve historical data from the central database (obtainedfrom other systems and applications) and compare the data with thecollect adaptive reasoning information.

Based on the rules, logic, and good practices, the adaptive reasoningsystem may provide the user with one or more recommendations and assessthe risks associated with each recommendation. When the user performsthe action as recommended, the actual outcome may be compared to theexpected outcome. The difference between the outcomes may be used toimprove the rules, logic, and good practices maintained by the adaptivereasoning system.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with asorting system to sort animals based on physical attributes, processattributes, any other attributes, and/or any combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the sorting system may physically sort animals basedon sorting criteria inputted by the user. The sorting system may consistof one or more devices which obtain sorting information on each animalpassing through the sorting system. As sorting information is obtained,the sorting system compares the sorting information to the user'ssorting criteria and guides the animal into the appropriate pen. In someembodiments, the sorting system may virtually sort the animals bysending instructions to a user to, for example, notch an identificationtag on an animal.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with agenetics improvement system to improve the quality of animals throughgenetics. The genetics improvement system may determine herd performancefactors important to a user's operation. The genetics improvement systemmay obtain herd performance information from other operations (e.g., anoperation with highly profitable performance ratings). The user mayaccess the herd performance information to improve the user's operation.

The genetics improvement system may allow the user to input herdspecification or objectives. Upon indicating the objectives of the user,the genetics improvement system may provide the user with genetic traitsthat influence the user's herd specifications and/or objectives. Thegenetics improvements system presents the user with an improvementstrategy, which may include replacement bulls, planned mating, or anyother suitable strategy. Upon performing the improvement strategy, theuser may be provided with further goals and improvement strategies forfuture production cycles.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with anenvironmental management system to manage the environmental aspects ofthe user's operation so that the user complies with governmentregulations and protects the environment. The environmental managementsystem may collect environmental information, which may include sourcematerial quality and quantity, land information, mapping information,and other suitable information. The environmental management system mayprovide the user with environmental options, such as “since the fieldhas X pounds of phosphorus per area, the user should not apply more thanY pounds of manure.” The user may be provided with the steps needed tocomplete the environmental options.

The environmental management system may also provide reminders tocomplete required activities (e.g., monitoring lagoon levels, testingair quality, etc.). The collected environmental information may assistthe user in complying with government regulations. For example, theenvironmental management system may provide checklists for periodicenvironmental testing and report the environmental information to theEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In some embodiments, the environmental management system may provide theuser with guidelines to manage contingencies, cleanups, and nuisances.The environmental management system may also provide geographicalinformation and land application management tools for mapping andmanaging byproducts, such as manure. The environmental management systemmay also correspond the environmental information with an animal'sidentification tag, such as an EID tag. The user may use thisinformation for health and performance analyses.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with anadaptive logistics system to manage the shipping arrangements of animalsand/or other commodities efficiently. The adaptive logistics system maymonitor shipping patterns, which may include monitoring the performance,various routes, the mortality rate, the animal handling skills, and thecleanliness of one or more truckers. Upon making a transaction withanother user, the adaptive logistics system may obtain shipping detailsfrom the user. The adaptive logistics system may determine the shippingavailability by identifying the available truckers based on theirproximity to the pick-up and drop-off locations and past performancerecord. Adaptive logistics system may determine the shipping arrangementby suggesting one of the available truckers.

Upon delivery, the adaptive logistics system may allow the user toprovide feedback, which may be provided in terms of the condition of theanimals, animal shrinkage during shipment, mortality rate, morbidityrate, transportation time, on-time pickup and delivery, and any othersuitable feedback. Adaptive logistics system 135 may further identifysuitable locations for new facilities, such as eMerge facilities,assimilation sites, or any other facility, based on transportation dataand committed transactions for future livestock purchases anddeliveries.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with asupply and demand management system to provide the user with a real-timeinventory of animals and future orders. The supply and demand managementsystem may provide the user with trading information on the animals andassist in making a transaction to better manage their inventory. Thesupply and demand management system may provide the used with theflexibility to fill an order from one or more facilities (e.g., fulfillone order from three ranches).

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with aelectronic commerce system to manage the sales and acquisitions of theuser. The electronic commerce system may be a catalog auction, amarketplace, an online brokerage, a real-time sale barn, an auction, aproduct catalog, an online commodity futures trading, etc. In someembodiments, the electronic commerce system may be an online catalogauction, which may solicit bids on animals. In some embodiment, theelectronic commerce system may be a sale barn auction where the user maybid on an animal auctioned at a local sale barn.

The electronic commerce system may also serve as a repository of productcatalogs and technical data. For example, the user may access theelectronic commerce system to order spare parts and obtain informationto configure newly acquired equipment. In some embodiments, theelectronic commerce system may be a marketplace, where the electroniccommerce system acts as a purchasing agent.

In some embodiments, the electronic commerce system may provide the userwith a content management system, which provides agricultural- andlivestock-related information (e.g., news). The content managementsystem may also provide chat sites and links to facilitate education andcommunication between users. For example, users may be provided withonline education sessions on topics, such as good management practices,risk management, and advances in genetics.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide users with aintegrated risk management system to determine risk levels and providethe user with advice on offsetting risk in the user's operation. Theuser must plan his or her production in advance and may considerfactors, such as a downturn in the economy, a decline in exports, thecost of fuel, weather conditions, etc. The user may input materialinputs to begin estimating the user's costs. The integrated riskmanagement system may compare the user's operation against otheroperations. This may identify opportunities for improvement and costreduction strategies.

The integrated risk management system may determine when the user shouldsell his or her product. This determination may require the user torestructure the user's operation depending on market conditions, costs,and other factors. In some embodiments, the integrated risk managementsystem may broker relationship between users in order to minimize risks.For example, a manufacturer may reduce a user's farm equipment coststhrough a long-term lease.

Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with aconsumer value system to evaluate the user's product and provide theuser with feedback. The user may enter attributes or any other suitableproduct information. Attributes may include genetics information,completed program information, etc. The consumer value system may obtainmarketing information and determine the user's consumer value. Theuser's consumer value may be a quality or performance rating. The usermay decide to make changes to the user's operation based on the ratings.In some embodiments, the consumer value system may identify otherproducts, which may be compatible with the user's operation. In someembodiments, the consumer value system may analyze collected attributefrom other users (e.g., feedback) using an expert system. The consumervalue system may provide the user with the analysis, thereby assistingthe user in managing multiple animals.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features of the invention, its nature and various advantageswill be more apparent from the following detailed description of thepreferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference characters refer to like partsthroughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an arrangement for the livestock management system,in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a generalized of illustrative steps for providing users withfeatures relating to livestock management, in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in certifyinganimals for a branded beef or a marketing program using thecertification system, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an illustrative block diagram of certification informationcollected at various locations, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIGS. 5-6 are illustrative displays that may be displayed for providingcertification information and program requirements, in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 7 is an illustrative notification that may be provided to the userupon completion of a branded beef or marketing program, in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows illustrative arrangements for the equipment and devicesused to obtain tracking information, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in monitoring andverifying animals using the tracking system, in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIGS. 10-12 are flowcharts of illustrative steps involved in enforcingcompliance using the compliance enforcement system, in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 13 is an illustrative display that may be displayed when verifyingthe user's compliance information, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in ensuring thecommunication of information using the data transactions system, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows a block flow diagram of the adaptive reasoning system, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates an arrangement for the equipment and devices used inthe sorting system, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in sorting animalsusing the sorting system, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 18 is an illustrative block diagram of sorting information that maybe collected for endpoint management, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 19 shows a block flow diagram of the genetics improvement system,in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 20 is an illustrative block diagram of environmental informationthat may be collected by the environmental management system, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in providingenvironmental management options using the environmental managementsystem, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in receivingadaptive logistics information, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in shippinganimals using adaptive logistics system, in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 is an illustrative flow diagram showing the transport of animalsbetween various locations, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 25 is an illustrative display that may be displayed for providingthe user with access to inventory or ordering information, in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 26 is an illustrative block diagram of the features of theelectronic commerce system, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in providing theuser with an assessment of the user's operation using the integratedrisk management system, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in providing theuser with consumer value information and product alternatives using theconsumer value system, in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock,such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, thisinvention relates to systems and methods in which users, such asproducers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers,are brought together through shared information and improvedcommunication.

The systems and methods may allow a user to manage one or more animalsfrom birth to death. In some embodiments, one or more animals may beelectronically detected and identified (e.g., by using RFID tags or anyother suitable approach for identifying animals). By collecting andprocessing information relating to each animal, a user may manage therequirements of each animal. Multiple users may access informationrelating to each animal. For example, when a user sells an animal to abuyer, the buyer may obtain information relating to the purchasedanimal. The buyer may then collect information on the purchased animaland pass the information onto the next buyer, such as a packer. Usersmay also access one or more applications, tools, and/or systems toincrease the value of each animal, monitor and track each animal, andimprove the efficiency of their operation. It should be noted that thesystem may be implemented for the entire life cycle of an animal (e.g.,from birth to death) or at multiple stages of the life of an animal(e.g., from the feedlot to the packer).

The present invention is primarily described herein in terms of “thesystem” and its associated subsystems (e.g., sorting system, geneticsimprovement system, etc.). It will be understood that the system may beany suitable, software, hardware, or both configured to implement thefeatures of the present invention. The system may be located at acentral location (e.g., a central server). In another suitable approach,the system may reside among different locations (e.g., a network).

In one particular embodiment, the system may include client-sidesoftware, hardware, or both. For example, the system may encompass oneor more Web-pages or Web-page portions (e.g., via any suitable encoding,such as XML, Cold Fusion, etc.).

Although the livestock management system is described herein as beingimplemented on client computers, this is only illustrative. Thelivestock management system may be implemented on any suitable platform(e.g., personal computer, palmtop computer, laptop computer, personaldigital assistant, cellular phone, etc.) to provide such features.

One suitable arrangement of such a livestock management system is shownin FIG. 1, which shows illustrative livestock management system 100constructed in accordance with the present invention. The livestockmanagement system of the present invention may be implemented using anysuitable communications network. In the illustrative arrangement of FIG.1, client computers 110 may be connected via links 115 to acommunication network 120. Client computer 110 may include any device orcombination of devices suitable for providing communications to a userof the system. Client computer 110 may include, for example, anysuitable personal computer, portable computer, palmtop computer,handheld personal computer, personal digital assistant, combinedcellular phone and personal digital assistant, set-top box (e.g., a WebTV enabled set-top box), or other suitable device.

Main facility 105 contains a central database 109 for storinginformation, such as electronic identification numbers, vaccinationhistory, genetic information, drug efficacy, certification history,feedlot performance, and any other suitable information. Main facility105 also contains a server 107. Server 107 may be any server suitablefor transmitting and receiving data over communication network 120. Theserver may provide one or more web pages to client computers using oneor more suitable protocols (e.g., HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) andTransmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)). The pages maybe defined using any suitable programming language (e.g., HyperTextMarkup Language (HTML), Dynamic HyperText Markup Language (DHTML),Extensible Markup Language (XML), etc.). The pages may include scripts,computer code, or subsets of computer code that define mini-programs(e.g., Perl scripts, Java applets, etc.). The servers may also run adatabase engine suitable for maintaining a database of consumer,transaction, offer, incentive, and fee information, such as MicrosoftSQL Server, Oracle 8i, or any other suitable database engine. Inpractice, one or more functions of server 107 may be distributed acrossmultiple servers, or may be integrated into a single server.

Although database 109 is primarily described as a central database,database 109 may be any suitable facility of obtaining data. Database109 may be one or more local databases that provide the data to acentral database. Database 109 may be a single database even if all theinformation in the database is distributed.

Information from database 109 may be transmitted to a certificationsystem 160, a tracking system 145, a compliance enforcement system 155,an adaptive reasoning system 140, a sorting system 130, a geneticsimprovement system 180, an environmental management system 150, anadaptive logistics system 135, a supply and demand management system170, an electronic commerce system 190, an integrated risk managementsystem 125, a consumer value system 195, any other suitable systems, orany suitable combination thereof, via link 115.

Link 115 may include any transmission medium suitable for communicatingdata to and from communication network 120. Link 115 may include, forexample, a dial-up telephone line, a computer network, an Internet link,an infrared link, a radio frequency link, a wireless link, a satellitelink, a digital subscriber line link (e.g., a DSL link), a cable TVlink, a Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) link,or any other suitable transmission link, or suitable combination of suchlinks. Different links may be of different types depending on, forexample, the particular type of access device or server used.

Any protocol or protocol stack suitable for supporting communicationsbetween client computers 110 and server 107 may be used. For example,Ethernet, Token Group, Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI),Circuit-Switched Cellular (CSC), Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD),RAM mobile data, Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), timedivision multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA),wireless application protocol (WAP), serial line Internet protocol(SLIP), point to point protocol (PPP), Transmission ControlProtocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Sequenced Packet Exchange andInternetwork Packet Exchange (SPX/FPX) protocols, or any other suitableprotocol or combination of protocols may be used.

Any suitable communication network 120 may be used in the communicationsystem in accordance with the present invention. For example,communication network 120 may be comprised in whole or in part of theInternet, an intranet, a public data network, a private data network, awireless network, a cable network, or any other suitable data network orcombination of networks.

The system may be implemented using application software that runsprimarily on client computer 110, server 107, or any suitablecombination thereof. However, regardless of the type of systemarchitecture or platform used, the application software that supportsthe livestock management features described herein may be referred to asthe system.

In a computer-based system, the user may access the system by browsingto an Internet Web site or a site on a private network. In anotherembodiment, system based on cellular telephones or the like may belaunched by selecting an appropriate on-screen menu option presented onthe display of the cellular telephone.

For purposes of brevity and clarity, and not by way of limitation, thesystem is primarily described herein in conjunction with the use of acomputer-based system. It will be understood that this is merely anillustrative embodiment of the present invention, and that any othersuitable device or combination of devices may be used.

For purposes of brevity and clarity, and not by way of limitation, thepresent invention is primarily described herein as using the system toperform all of the functions of the present invention.

The system may provide a user with an interface having suitable displaysthat may be used by the user to benefit from the features of thelivestock management system. For example, the system may provide theuser with the ability to access lists of available information.

FIG. 2 shows a generalized flowchart of illustrative steps involved inproviding features for livestock management. At step 210, the system mayelectronically detect one or more animals. For example, the system maydetect multiple animals using RFID tags or any other suitable animalidentification approach. In response to detecting one or more animals,the system may electronically identify the one or more animals at step215. At step 220, the system may collect information on the one or moreanimals. The system may store the collected information in a database.In some embodiments, the system may automatically collect informationbased at least in part on the detection of the one or more animals. Atstep 225, the system may process at least a portion of the collectedinformation. At step 230, the system may provide the user with access tothe collected and processed information. For example, the system mayprovide a user that has purchased an animal with access to informationrelating to the animal.

Certification system 160, tracking system 145, compliance enforcementsystem 155, data transactions system 165, adaptive reasoning system 140,sorting system 130, genetic improvement system 180, environmentalmanagement system 150, adaptive logistics system 135, supply and demandmanagement system 170, electronic commerce system 190, integrated riskmanagement system 125, and consumer value system 195 may be anycomputer-based system and may run a database engine suitable formaintaining a database of information such as, Microsoft SQL Server,Oracle 8i, or any other suitable database engine. These systems areshown as being connected to server 1076 via communication network 120.However, the features of these systems may be provided using a singleserver, distributed across multiple servers, or integrated into server107. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

Certification System

In order for users, such as the members of the livestock productionchain, to lower production costs, create incremental value, and trackanimal performance, livestock must be differentiated. With the advent ofelectronic identification tags, the Internet, and other newtechnologies, animals may be differentiated by, for example, collectingand sharing certification information using certification system 180.Certification system 180 may be standalone or may be included as part ofthe system. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

In the examples of FIGS. 5-7, certification system 180 is providedthrough a series of interactive web pages. Although the presentinvention is described primarily in the context of user interfaces onweb pages, user interfaces may be part of any other suitableapplication. For example, user interfaces may be provided withcertification software. In another example, user interfaces may beaccessed over the Internet. Any other suitable approach may also beused.

Certification system 180 may be used to differentiate livestock.Certification system 180 may require users to collect information inorder to participate in a beef marketing program, wherein the beefmarketing program may include a branded beef program, a marketingprogram, or any other suitable program. These programs may require thatthe animals are produced and processed according to specificrequirements for health (e.g., immunity building, health improvement,etc.), management, genetics, and nutrition. Such program requirementsmay aid in producing animals with above average growth rates, moreconsistent carcass quality (e.g., Choice), and/or improved yield grade.Participation in a beef marketing program may substantially improve theoverall revenue potential of the animals. In some embodiments,certification system 180 may assist such programs with the datacollection, verification, analysis, feedback, and/or dissemination ofinformation via the Internet. In some embodiments, certification system180 may assist a user (e.g., a producer or feedlot manager) withevaluating the requirements of one or more beef marketing programs andselecting the program most appropriate for his or her operation.

The information collected by certification system 180 may provide users(e.g., buyers) with insight into an animal's health immunity, genetics,history, growth potential, and/or future carcass performance. Users maypay a fee for this information and may prefer to purchase certifiedlivestock. Typically, buyers may pay more for certified livestock, andhence certification system 180 may increase the overall value of theseanimals. In some embodiments, certification system 180 may provide theseller with broader market coverage for the seller's livestock becauseof industry-wide recognition of beef marketing programs, theirpromotions, and sponsorships of special Internet auctions of thesecertified animals.

FIG. 3 is an illustrative flowchart of steps involved in certifyinganimals for a branded beef or a marketing program. At step 1200, theuser may be provided with an opportunity to participate in a beefmarketing program by selecting the beef marketing program on acertification display. The user may select at least one beef marketingprogram. When the user selects a program, the user may be presented withprogram requirements at step 1210. Multiple program requirements may bepresented to the user as a list. These program requirements may includerules for health, management, nutrition, and/or any other suitablerules. At step 1220, users may be instructed on how to meet the programrequirements. This may require documenting procedures performed on theanimals from birth to slaughter (step 1230). Such procedures may includemedical treatments, weight or other physical attribute measurements,vaccinations, or any other suitable procedures. An example of the typeof data, procedures, and information that may be recorded during acalf's life by certification system 180 is shown in FIG. 4. As shown inarea 1270, packer 1275 may collect certification information 1280, whichmay include hot carcass weight, quality grade, yield grade, backfatthickness, and carcass value. When packer 1275 collects certificationinformation 1280, packer 1275 may transmit information 1280 to thecentral database.

Referring back to FIG. 3, at step 1240, the documented procedures may bestored (e.g., uploaded) in the central database. At step 1250, users mayaccess all of the certification information available on a group ofanimals or an individual animal via the Internet. For example, a beefmarketing program may query the central database to verify that one ormore animals came from a specific ranch, were finished at a specificfeedlot, and were processed at the program's packing plant. That is, auser may query the database to verify that multiple animals arecertifiable under one or more beef marketing programs.

In some embodiments, users may receive a notification indicating thatthe user has met all the requirements of the branded beef program (step1260). The notification may also include the status of each programrequirement. Notifications may be provided electronically, as forexample, e-mail, pop-up messages, or other suitable electronic messages,or as printed certificates, that are delivered to the users.Notifications may also qualify the value of recommended procedures andtreatments through valuation of a seller's costs and a buyer's benefits.The seller's costs may include vaccinations, labor, feed, calf morbidityand mortality during weaning, market price volatility, etc. The buyer'sbenefits may include reduction in calf morbidity and mortality rates,weight gain performance, conversion efficiency, carcass performance,medicine, veterinary charges, labor, etc. Such information may be usedto determine a fair market value for certified animals and may providedata to other programs or applications (e.g., sorting system 130,tracking system 145, etc.) within the system.

Certification system 180 is merely illustrative of the principles ofthis invention. Those skilled in the art may make modifications withoutdeparting form the scope and spirit of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows an illustrative display 1300, such as a web page, forproviding a user with an opportunity to select a branded beef and/ormarketing program. Illustrative display 1300, as well as other displaysdescribed herein, may include header portion 1305. Header portion 1305may include, for example, the name of the system provider (e.g., CompanyA), a description of the display, and link 1310. Link 1310 may provide auser with opportunities to access information about the system or accessany other suitable information. Link 1310 may include any suitablepassive or interactive text, graphics, video, audio, animation, and/orany other suitable content. Illustrative display 1300 may provide theuser with opportunities to select the appropriate branded beef programby inputting criteria (e.g., filter 1317, filter 1319, etc.). Users may,for example, select criteria using searching interface 1315.

Display 1300 may provide program menu 1350 listing one or more of thebranded beef programs offered by Company A. Program menu 1350 includesprogram indicators (e.g., indicator 1320, indicator 1325, indicator1330, etc.) for one or more of the branded beef programs offered byCompany A. Program indicators may include any suitable passive orinteractive text, graphics, video, audio, animations, a combinationthereof, and/or any other suitable content. In this example, the userindicates a desire to participate in “Branded Beef 3” by selectingindicator 1330. Upon selecting indicator 1330, the user may be directedto illustrative display 1400. FIG. 6 shows an illustrative display 1400for the program requirements the user must follow for the user's animalto be certified by “Branded Beef 3.” Display 1400 may includechecklists, check boxes, lists, forms, or any other suitable on-screenelements.

The user may receive a notification upon completion of the programrequirements and upon verification of the user's actions. Anillustrative notification is shown in FIG. 7. A notification 1500 mayinclude a message to the user and a valuation or rating of the user'sanimal. For example, the valuation may be in terms of the user's costs,buyer's benefits, and comparisons relative to other participants in theprogram on an average basis either at a local, state, or national level.

Certification system 130 is merely illustrative of the principles ofthis invention and various modifications may be made by those skilled inthe art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Tracking System

Using certification system 130, users may differentiate animals. Someembodiments may use the certification information or any other suitableinformation stored in the central database to aid in tracking animals.The system may provide, for example, tracking system 145 that usesinformation to assist in monitoring the growth and performance of eachanimal. Tracking system 145 may be standalone or may be included as partof the system. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

Tracking system 145 may monitor the growth and performance of eachanimal from conception to harvest. Tracking system 145 may require users(e.g., owners of animals) to document, for example, all processes andtreatments performed, medical history, average daily weight gain indifferent environments. Buyers desiring to purchase animals throughbranded beef programs or other marketing programs may use the trackinginformation to verify the source and/or condition of the animals. Sincethe ownership of the animal may change several times throughout itslife, each user (e.g., stakeholder) in the supply chain may be requiredto acquire relevant data and enter the data into the central database.For example, tracking system 145 may generate a medical record in adatabase documenting the diagnosis of any illness and specificmedication dispensed any time an animal becomes sick. Each user in thesupply chain may access the central database through applicationsprograms and data acquisition systems, such as compliance programs,certification programs, adaptive reasoning programs, adaptive logisticsprograms, and other applications within the livestock management system.In an alternate embodiment, when a buyer purchases one or more animals,tracking system 145 may provide the buyer with tracking information inthe central database relating to the purchased animals.

One example of multiple embodiments of tracking system is shown in FIG.8. As shown, tracking system 145 may consist of multiple devices uniqueto its own environment. At feedlot 360, tracking system 145 may consistof a stationary antenna, a radio frequency reader, a chute-side dataacquisition system, a global positioning satellite receiver, and adesktop computer that may connect to the central database via theInternet. Multiple devices, such as a weight scale, a rectalthermometer, or any other suitable device may be connected to trackingsystem 145 via the chute-side data acquisition system.

Tracking system 145 may require animals to have radio frequencyidentification tags (hereinafter referred to as “RFID tags”). The degreeof automation of tracking system 145 may depend on the size andsophistication of each user's operation. For example, a smalleroperation (e.g., ranch, background, etc.) may desire the least amount ofinstrumentation and automation. In another embodiment, tracking system145 may consist of a handheld computer and a desktop computer, which mayconnect to the central database via the Internet. The handheld computermay connect to multiple devices, such as a weight scale or any othersuitable devices. In these embodiments, tracking information may beentered manually or may be entered automatically into the trackingsystem. Tracking information, such as medical records, may be uploadedto the central database.

FIG. 9 is an illustrative flowchart of steps involved in monitoring andverifying animals using tracking system 145 in accordance with thepresent invention. Animals may have RFID tags, barcode tags, or otheridentification tags attached to their ear or any other suitablelocation. At step 300, when animal walks or runs by a station, theanimal may be identified by, for example, using a radio frequency readerto read the animal's tag. However, any other suitable approach may beused. After identifying the animal, the station may execute a pluralityof devices and/or applications to obtain tracking information from theanimal. For example, the station may capture a static or dynamic imageof the animal with a digital camera or any other suitableimage-capturing device. The station may also use rectal thermometers andweight scales for temperature and weight measurements. The station maybe used to collect tracking information, such as weight, temperature,color, location, etc. Tracking information may be manually orautomatically entered depending on, for example, the size andsophistication of the user's operation. At step 310, tracking system 145may provide the user (e.g., a rancher) with an opportunity to manuallyinput tracking information. In another suitable approach, trackingsystem 145 may automatically enter the tracking information at step 320.At step 330, tracking system 145 may periodically (e.g., a timepredetermined by tracking system 145 and/or the user) store the trackinginformation acquired on animals in the central database. When thetracking information acquired is deemed incomplete, the central databasemay generate an electronic (e.g., an e-mail, pop-up, or any otherelectronic message) or printed notification and send it to the user.Tracking system 145 may allow the user to access tracking informationfrom the central database, tracking system 145, or any other suitablesystem.

Tracking system 145 may promote sharing of information building ofrelationships between users (e.g., buyers and sellers) in the supplychain. At step 340, the tracking information stored in the centraldatabase may be available to one or more users in the supply chain.Tracking system 145 may also aid in benchmarking and predicting futuretrends. For example, tracking system 145 may provide trackinginformation to adaptive reasoning system 140, adaptive logistics system135, and other applications within the livestock management system.

At step 350, tracking system 145 may also analyze the trackinginformation and feedback from other users in the supply chain to assista user in making improvements in his or her operation, quality, andoverall profitability. Additionally, tracking system 145 may trackanimals from conception to consumption. This may inherently provide asafer method and mechanism for tracking the supply of meat.

Tracking system 145 is merely illustrative of the principles of thisinvention and various modifications may be made by those skilled in theart without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Compliance Enforcement System

Certification system 180, tracking system 145, and other systems maystore their respective data into the central database. The system mayprovide a method for enforcing compliance that uses the informationstored in the central database. The system may provide, for example,compliance enforcement system 155 that looks to corroborate theinformation in the central database. Compliance system 180 may bestandalone or may be included as part of the system. Any other suitableapproach may also be used.

Compliance enforcement system 155 may be used to ensure that a user(e.g., sellers, ranchers, stocker operators, backgrounders, feedlotmanagers, etc.) is following specific requirements for a livestockprogram. For example, a branded beef program may not allow the use ofhormone growth promoters, antibiotics, certain genetics and/or animalproteins in the feed. Compliance enforcement system 155 may useinformation acquired from one or more sources to ensure compliance bythe user. For example, compliance enforcement system 155 may obtaintracking information from tracking system 145 and certificationinformation from certification system 160.

Using the Internet or the central database, users may selectively shareand compare compliance information with buyers. Compliance informationsuch as medical records, process records, nutrition records, genetictest results and any other suitable information may be shared todetermine whether a user has complied with the buyer's requirements.Compliance enforcement system 155 may rely on feedback mechanisms andfacilitation from veterinarians, nutritionists, animal scienceprofessionals, and/or any other suitable experts. Experts may be used tomonitor for compliance and provide feedback and advice to sellers forimproving compliance and livestock quality.

In an alternate embodiment, an authorized user may inspect an animal forcompliance. Authorized users may include beef marketing representatives,authorized personnel, or any other suitable user. Compliance enforcementsystem 155 may provide the authorized user with access to information inthe central database, review records, and inspect the animal, therebyensuring compliance with the branded beef program or beef marketingprogram.

In some embodiments, compliance enforcement system 155 may monitorcommunications from multiple computers concerning an individual animal.For example, compliance enforcement system 155 may monitor acommunication (e.g., an e-mail, a data entry, etc.). Complianceenforcement system 155 may compare that communication with complianceenforcement criteria stored in the central database. In someembodiments, compliance enforcement system 155 may verify that anindividual animal complies with the program requirements of, forexample, a beef marketing program based on the comparison.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in enforcingcompliance in the livestock management system. At step 1355, the usermay purchase a product or service, such as a vaccine from aveterinarian, a distributor, an Internet marketplace, or any othersuitable distributor. At step 1360, compliance enforcement system 155may detect when a product or service is used on an animal. For example,when a user purchases a product or service from a distributor, thedistributor (e.g., veterinarian or any other suitable expert) may send amessage to the central database at step 1360. The entry of the purchasein the central database may indirectly confirm participation in apreconditioning program where that product or service (e.g., vaccine) isa prerequisite. Compliance may also be determined by correlating orcomparing the purchases of specific vaccines or other purchased productsor services over the Internet to multiple requirements of a beefmarketing or other marketing program that the user desires to markettheir animals through. At step 1365, the compliance information from thedistributor may be stored in the central database.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in providing userswith incentives upon selling their animals. When the user desires tosell his livestock, compliance information may be accessed from thecentral database at step 1370. Compliance information may includemedical records, process records, nutrition records, source, genetictest results, and any other suitable data. Compliance enforcement system155 may determine whether the user has complied with the buyer'srequirements at step 1375. For example, for a user to receive Angus beefcertification the cow must undergo specific preconditioning programs andother requirements. To determine whether the user has met the buyer'srequirements, the central database may be queried to determine if theuser has met the buyer's program requirements. The complianceinformation may be subjected to a compliance screen or checklist. Anillustrative compliance screen 1399 is shown in FIG. 13. Compliancescreen 1399 may include a summary of the user's actions and an analysisof the user's actions.

When the user meets the buyer's requirements, the user may be entitledto incentives at step 1380. Incentives may include financial rewardsand/or financial premiums commensurate to quality requirements. Theseincentives may also include reimbursement for the costs incurred forfollowing the buyer's requirements or discounts on offered products,etc.

Compliance enforcement system 155 may also be used for verifying theperformance of the user. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of illustrative stepsinvolved in provide feedback to the user from the buyer. For example,carcass quality may be the endpoint criterion for the buyer. Byobtaining carcass data, the feedback may be based on, for example, acomparison of the expected performance of the animal to the actualperformance. At step 1385, the buyer may obtain the livestock and pay apacker for the carcass data. At step 1386, the buyer may compare theactual performance of the animal (e.g., from the carcass data) to theexpected performance of the animal. The comparison may by stored in thecentral database at step 1387. At step 1388, the user may receivefeedback from one or more buyers based on the comparison.

Based on the feedback from one or more buyers, the user may receive acompliance rating. The compliance rating may be a quality score for theuser in the supply chain on a per order basis. The score may aid inidentifying the user's shortcomings and initiate the necessarycorrective actions to improve the quality of the livestock. Complianceenforcement system 155 may also set a minimum rating that must be met byany user participating in the buyer's program.

Veterinarians may be involved with the treatment of calves and the saleand distribution of vaccines and medicine. Some embodiments may be usedto monitor the performance of the veterinarian. The actions of theveterinarian may be recorded in the central database. When one or moreusers associated with a veterinarian performs consistently below aprogram's accepted standards, the veterinarian may be placed onprobation and at a time predetermined by compliance enforcement system155, the veterinarian may be excluded from participation in the buyer'sprogram.

Compliance enforcement system 155 is merely illustrative of theprinciples of this invention and various modifications may be made bythose skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe invention.

Data Transactions System

As the central database accumulates information through automatic ormanual collection processes, the system may determine the accessibilityof such information. The system may categorize the information intogroups, such as privileged and private.

Privileged information may, for example, include data that may betransferred to a user that purchases the animal, such as breed, sex,weight, vaccination information, or any other suitable privilegedinformation. Veterinarians, consultants, or other service providers mayalso access such privileged information.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may allow a user tostore private information. In some embodiments, data transactions system165 may provide access to private information to a user that has enteredthe private information. Private information may include, for example,origin, location, pen number, lending officer, inspection location, andany other suitable information that may reveal the ownership of theanimal.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may differentiateinformation into such groups as privileged and private to shareinformation to other users of the supply chain. Data transactions system165 may also differentiate information to protect the identity of theowner.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of illustrative steps for providing users withaccess to information. At step 250, data transactions system 165 mayreceive a communication from a user. The communication may be a requestto enter animal attribute information into the central database. Inresponse to the communication, data transactions system 165 may assignan access indicator to the animal attribute information (step 252). Datatransactions system 165 may enter the information into the centraldatabase (step 254). In some embodiments, data transactions system 165may assign an access indicator to the animal attribute informationbefore the information is entered into the central database. In someembodiments, data transactions system 165 may search through the centraldatabase for entered animal attribute information without an assignedaccess indicator. Upon locating an entered animal attribute in thecentral database without an access indicator, data transactions system165 may assign an access indicator to the entered information.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may sort the enteredinformation into categories, such as privileged and private. However,data transactions system 165 may categorize the information into anyother suitable group.

At step 256, data transactions system 165 may receive a communicationfrom another user that requests access to the entered information. Insome embodiments, each user may have an access code. Such an access codemay include user information (e.g., name, address, type of user, etc.).Upon receiving the communication, data transactions system 165 maydetermine which access indicator is associated with the requestedinformation (step 258). At step 260, data transactions system 165 maylimit the quantity of requested information to be provided to the userbased on the associated access indicator and the access code of theuser.

For example, if a user has purchased an animal, data transactions system165 may provide the user with access to privileged information on theanimal. Privileged information may include, for example, vaccinationinformation, medical history, weight history, etc. In another example,if a user has entered information on an animal, the system may providethe user with access to the information that the user has inputted(e.g., private information). In response to determining the status ofthe user, data transactions system 165 may provide the user with accessto the appropriate information.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may provide users thathave entered information for a particular animal (e.g., an animal withan RFID) with access to privileged information (e.g., informationinputted by other users) and private information (e.g., information thatthe user has inputted). In some embodiments, data transactions system165 may provide users that have purchased an animal with privilegedinformation.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may provide users withan opportunity to log in. In some embodiments, users may be required tolog in by, for example, entering a user name and password. In otherembodiments, users may not be required to log in to access the featuresof the system. In approaches where users log in, data transactionssystem 165 may use the log in information to retrieve the user's statusand accessibility during the data transaction process. Data transactionssystem 165 may use user names (e.g., CiN numbers or any other suitableidentification) to allow data service providers, veterinarians,organizations, and other affiliated data entry personnel to input datawithout compromising the security of the animal owner.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may provide users witha notification feature. When the user requests to input information,data transactions system 165 may use a “first-in-first-out” approach toenter inputted information into the central database. Data transactionssystem 165 may detect when information that the user has inputted hasbeen entered into the central database. In response to the detection,data transactions system 165 may provide the user with a notificationnotifying the user of that the information has been entered into thedatabase. For example, data transactions system 165 may automaticallysend a printed or electronic (e.g., an e-mail, pop-up message, etc.)notification.

In some embodiments, data transactions system 165 may allow the user toselect particular information to be delivered to other users, such asbuyers, veterinarians, organization, or any other suitable user. Forexample, data transactions system 165 may automatically send a printedor electronic (e.g., an e-mail, pop-up message, etc.) notification.

Data transactions system 165 is merely illustrative of the principles ofthis invention and various modifications may be made by those skilled inthe art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Adaptive Reasoning System

As the central database accumulates the information, the system may beadaptive and may have learning capabilities. Specific health regimensand their causes and effects may be entered into, for example, adaptivereasoning system 140, which allows the system to learn and pass theinformation on to the users. Adaptive reasoning system 140 may simulatean array of experts overlooking an operation. Adaptive reasoning system140 may be standalone or may be included as part of the system. Anyother suitable approach may also be used.

Adaptive reasoning system 140 simulates logic, rules, and/or goodpractices used by experts for livestock management. Adaptive reasoningsystem 140 may recommend actions to be taken based on criteria, such asobservations, measurements, and historical information archived in thecentral database. The outcome of these actions may be compared withexpected results and trends established. The actual outcome may be usedto continuously refine, improve, and/or recalibrate analytical andempirical models. In some embodiments, adaptive reasoning system 140 maycreate web-enabled expert systems and/or knowledge-based tools availableat, for example, ranches and feedlots and may be part of an overalllivestock management system.

Adaptive reasoning system 140 may include a library of expert programs(e.g., modules). Each program may focus on a subject matter ofimportance to a livestock segment. For example, an expert system may beused for early detection of sickness in calves at a feedlot. The expertsystem may guide one or more users at the feedlot through a process ofmaking observations, taking physical measurements, reviewing medicalrecords, and making a correct diagnosis and selecting an appropriatetreatment. For example, the expert system may use RFID tags to determinethe number of times an animal has approached the feeding bunk. If ananimal does not approach the feeding bunk the average number of times,adaptive reasoning system 140 may trigger a tracking device on theanimal (e.g., place a flag) and notify the user. In some embodiments,adaptive reasoning system 140 at, for example, a feedlot mayperiodically (e.g., a time predetermined by adaptive reasoning system140) look at the weight history and medical records of animals and mayidentify calves that are potential railers (i.e., calves that may notmeet their potential for growth and/or performance) and may be sold atthe earliest opportunity. In yet another approach, adaptive reasoningsystem 140 at, for example, a ranch may be used to systematically cullcows based on information stored in the database, such as calf weightgain data, dam breeding data, carcass data, and any other suitable data.

FIG. 15 shows a block flow diagram of adaptive reasoning system 140 inaccordance with the present invention. At step 1005, adaptive reasoningsystem 140 may collect adaptive reasoning information from the animal.The adaptive reasoning information may be collected using a dataacquisition station or using any other suitable approach. Collectinginformation may be automated or may require a user to manually enterdata into the database. Information may include animal observations,sensor measurements, or any other suitable information. Animalobservations may refer to ocular or nasal discharges, coughing, posture,movement, feeding pattern, and social behavior. Sensor measurements mayrefer to monitoring a calf's RFID, core body temperature, digitalimages, vaginal mucous conductance, or any other parameter deemedimportant for an application. Information may also be obtained from thecentral database (e.g., stored tracking information from tracking system145).

In some embodiments, adaptive reasoning system 140 may typically useinformation and data from other systems within the overall livestockmanagement system depending on the type, size and complexity of theoperation. The adaptive reasoning system may use artificial intelligencemethods or models, such as neural networks, or any other suitableintelligence methods for training or, for example, for assisting ininterpreting the information.

In some embodiments, adaptive reasoning system 140 may be a closed loopfeedback system. The information collected at step 1005 may be analyzedby an expert system and/or a knowledge-based tool at step 1010. The usermay desire to retrieve historical data from the database via theInternet at step 1015. Based on the collected information and the rulesof adaptive reasoning system 140, the expert system may make one or morerecommendations to the user. The rules may also include logic and goodpractices used by experts. The recommendations from adaptive reasoningsystem 140 may be reviewed by the user at step 1020. The user may assessthe risks associated with the actions recommended by adaptive reasoningsystem 140 at step 1025.

At step 1030, the user may decide on a particular course of action basedon the recommendation from adaptive reasoning system 140. Upon selectinga recommendation, adaptive reasoning system 140 may provide the userwith a list of steps to perform the selected recommendation. When theuser performs the recommendation, the actual outcome may be monitoredand may be compared with the expected results at step 1035. Thedifference between the expected result and the actual result may bereconciled and used to improve the rules used by adaptive reasoningsystem 140 and to improve the performance of other systems within thelivestock management system. Therefore, adaptive reasoning system 140may be used to improve the management of the operation so that theoverall commercial value of the livestock is improved and that thebusiness is more efficient and profitable. Adaptive reasoning system 140may also be used to predict futures trends based on, for example, theinformation in the central database and the compared results.

Adaptive reasoning system 140 is merely illustrative of the principlesof this invention and various modifications may be made by those skilledin the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Sorting System

Typically, livestock is sold by the truckload. Compliance enforcementsystem 155, adaptive reasoning system 140, and other systems may be usedto generate additional value from livestock. In order to generateadditional value, the livestock must be sorted. The system may provide,for example, sorting system 130 to aid users with sorting livestock.Sorting system 130 may obtain any suitable information from the centraldatabase (e.g., certification information, tracking information, etc.).Sorting system 130 may be standalone or may be included as part of thesystem. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

Sorting system 130 may sort animals so that additional value isgenerated. Animals may be sorted into groups based on physicalattributes, process attributes, any other attributes, and/or anycombinations thereof. Physical attributes may be used as indicators ofgrowth rate and carcass performance. Physical attributes may includegender (e.g., steer, bull, heifer, etc.), breed mix (e.g., Angus,Charolais, Brahman, etc.), ear size, hip height, age, muscle, color, eyecolor, weight, or any other suitable physical attribute. Processattributes may identify treatments and procedures administered to theanimals, which may improve animal performance and/or save time, labor,and cost to a buyer in the supply chain. Process attributes may includede-horned, castrated, weaned, bunk-broke, preconditioned as per aprogram such as market preferred, market plus, etc., open heifers (i.e.,checked for pregnancy), DNA tested, ultrasound measurements, or anyother suitable process attribute. Animals may also be sorted based onother attributes, such as source (e.g., geographic region). Sortingsystem 130 may allow a user to differentiate animals using one or morecriteria based on physical and/or process attributes. For example, thecriteria may be modified to meet the market demand or a buyer's needs(e.g., sales order requirements). A buyer may desire only calvesweighing between 400 to 450 pounds, only steers, black colored,de-horned, castrated, and preconditioned to a Vac45 health program.

Preferably, sorting is performed at assimilation sites, sale barns,feedlots, and/or any other suitable location. One embodiment of sortingsystem 130 implemented at an assimilation site is shown in FIG. 16.Sorting system 130 may consist of one or more devices unique to its ownenvironment. However, the degree of automation and the types of devicesmay depend on the size and sophistication of each user's operation. Asshown in FIG. 16, sorting system 130 may consist of an antenna 320, areader 325 (e.g., a radio frequency reader), a controller 305, and adata acquisition system 330. Client computer 115 may connect to thecentral database, for example, via the Internet. Multiple devices, suchas a weighing device 335 (e.g., a weight scale), a temperature sensingdevice 336 (e.g., a rectal thermometer), an image-capturing device 337,a height sensing device 338 (e.g., a light curtain), or an ultrasounddevice 339 may be connected to the data acquisition system of sortingsystem 130. Image-capturing device 337 may be used to sort animals bycolor. In another approach, image-capturing device 337 may be combinedwith a laser to obtain a three-dimensional image of the animal. Anyother suitable sensors or devices may be connected to sorting system130.

Sorting system 130 may physically sort animals into pens. The pens mayhave the capacity to hold a truckload or a any other suitable amount ofanimals. Client computer 115 may guide one or more animals into specificpens by instructing controller 305 to extend or retract movementmechanisms 310, which may open or close one or more gates 315.Controller 305 may control movement mechanism 310 by a person operatingmovement devices and equipment, client computer 115, or any othersuitable approach. Movement mechanism 310 may be an electrical actuator,a hydraulic actuator, or any other suitable mechanism. Preferably,movement mechanism 310 is a low noise actuator.

FIG. 17 is an illustrative flowchart of steps involved in sortinganimals in accordance with the present invention. At step 400, sortingsystem 130 may provide a user with an opportunity to select sortingcriteria (e.g., physical sorting attributes, process sorting attributes,etc.). For example, sorting system 130 may allow the user to entersorting criteria into the central database.

Animals may have identification tags (e.g., RFID tags, barcode tags,etc.) attached to their ear or any other suitable location. At step 410,sorting system 130 may electronically detect and identify an animal. Forexample, when the animal walks or runs by a station, a reader may readthe animal's tag or identification data may be manually entered into acomputer, handheld computer, or any other suitable device.

After identifying the animal, the station may execute a variety ofdevices and/or applications. For example, the station may capture astatic or dynamic image of the animal with a digital camera or any othersuitable image-capturing device. As another example, the station may usetemperature sensing devices (e.g., rectal thermometers) and weightscales to obtain temperature and weight measurements. Data may bemanually or automatically entered depending on, for example, the sizeand sophistication of the user's operation. At step 420, sorting system130 may provide the user (e.g., a rancher) with an opportunity tomanually input sorting information. In another suitable approach,sorting system 130 may automatically enter the sorting information atstep 430. For example, as each device obtains data, sorting system 130may create a record, such as a medical record, or a process record, andrecord the newly obtained information.

At step 440, upon collecting the sorting information on the animal,sorting system 130 may store the sorting information in the centraldatabase. Sorting information may be saved in the central database suchthat one or more users (e.g., ranchers, interested parties, etc.) mayaccess the information. For example, when a user purchases an animal,sorting system 130 may provide the user with access to sortinginformation related to that animal. At step 450, sorting system 130 maycompare the user's selected sorting criteria with the stored sortinginformation. The comparison may occur, for example, when sorting system130 identifies an animal. Upon reading the identification tag, thecontroller may receive instructions from, for example, client computer115 (step 460). The set of instructions may include opening and closingone or more gates leading into specific pens. At step 470, thecontroller may then operate the movement mechanism to lead the animalsinto their pens. Any other suitable approach for sorting may also beused.

FIG. 18 is an illustrative block diagram of the measurements andcriteria that may be used to group animals at a feedlot for endpointmanagement. In one example, ultrasound 475 may be used to obtainultrasound information 480. Ultrasound information may include backfatthickness, marbling score, and muscle thickness. Any other suitableapproach may be used or any other information may be obtained.

It is well known in the art that end point management may be used todetermine the length of time animals should be fed and the strategy forselling the animals. In this embodiment, along with the animal's weight,hip height, age, and muscle, ultrasonic measurements may be taken toestimate the animal's backfat thickness, muscle depth, and marbling inthe longissimus muscle. Such information may be used to determine thenumber of days the animal should be fed before harvesting, and expectedyield and quality grades. Animals may also be sorted by marketingoptions such as value-based grids, market prices, choice/select qualitygrade spreads, and/or any other marketing options. With these sortingtechniques, a feedlot may sell animals based on their harvest date.These animals may be commingled for shipment to a packing plant.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, users may virtuallysort animals using sorting system 135. For example, if the user does nothave the space or a large enough operation to physically sort theanimals, sorting system 130 may virtually sort the animals. If aparticular grouping of animals is required for a process or harvesting,the information is available for each animal. Instead of sendinginstructions to the controller and leading animals into a series ofpens, sorting system 130 may send instructions to a user, such as acowhand, to notch the visual identification tag.

Sorting system 130 is merely illustrative of the principles of thisinvention and various modifications may be made by those skilled in theart without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Genetics Improvement System

Some embodiments may provide users with alternate methods for improvingtheir operation. Through the information stored in the central database,users, such as producers and feedlot managers, may benchmark theiroperations against other operations (local or national). Users mayanalyze the information to make better decisions. In one approach, thesystem may provide the user with genetics improvement system 180.Genetics improvement system 180 enables users to improve the herdgenetics. Genetics improvement system 180 may be standalone or may beincluded as part of the system. Any other suitable approach may also beused.

Genetics improvement system 180 may be used to improve the quality ofanimals through genetics. Users, such as cow-calf producers, requireaccurate, timely information to assure that their operation'sproductivity will yield maximum return on investment. Return oninvestment is affected by calf breakeven price, which is influenced bythe ratio of pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed. The ratio of poundsof calf weaned per cow exposed consists of both reproductive and growthcomponents that must be balanced. Genetics, and more specifically, theadaptability of the genetics to the specific environment (e.g., farm,ranch, etc.) are critical components of financial viability. Genetictraits may be grouped into reproductive performance, growth, diseaseresistance, and carcass characteristics. Although reproduction has beenthe most significant of the economically important traits, emphasis onvalue-based marketing has elevated the need for specific enhancedcarcass characteristics.

The optimum ratio of pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed for aspecific ranch begins by obtaining a high weaning rate (i.e., thepercentage of live calves at weaning). Higher weaning rates result fromelevated pregnancy rates combined with low levels of calving difficultyand low calf mortality. A user, such as a rancher, may desire to usebulls with lower birth weight EPDs (minimal dystocia) and highpre-weaning growth EPDs in order to enhance the ratio of pounds of calfweaned per cow exposed. A user concerned about calving ease will likelyselect replacement heifers with higher maternal calving ease EPDs andeliminate those with small pelvic areas. Monitoring such factors maylower veterinary costs and improve overall profitability.

Turning to FIG. 19, a block flow diagram of one example of geneticsimprovement system 180 of the present invention is illustrated. Asshown, at step 1205, genetics improvement system 180 may identify herdperformance factors important to, for example, ranch profitability. Herdperformance factors may include length of calving season, calvingdistribution, pregnancy rate, calf weaning weight, dam weight atweaning, weaning rate, and the ratio of pounds of calf weaned per cowexposed. At step 1210, genetics improvement system 180 may access adatabase and compare the herd performance with performance informationof other herds stored in a database. In some embodiments, geneticsimprovement system 180 may compare the herd performance to those of aranch with highly profitable performance ratings. Genetics improvementsystem 180 may also develop one or more benchmarks based on averages ofthe herd performance information in the central database. A user, suchas a rancher, may access genetic information of other ranches to improvehis or her ranch. For example, a user may compare his or her operationagainst other operations in the same geographical area with desirableherd performance ratings.

At step 1215, genetics improvement system 180 may provide the user(e.g., a rancher) with an opportunity to create herd specifications.Herd specifications may include objectives of the user. Geneticsimprovement system 180 may aid the user in identifying the desirabletraits in which genetics play an important roll for ranch production.The user may use the data to identify weaknesses in certain areas ofherd performance that may be restricting return on investment. Forexample, if a calf's growth potential exceeds the ability of its dam toproduce milk there may be a need to enhance the milk production of thecowherd through the use of bulls with higher milk genetics. Conversely,cows with the genetic ability for higher milk production may haveinadequate nutritional resources in some environments and may be unableto consistently rebreed to maintain a twelve-month calving interval.Genetics improvement system 180 may identify the issues and assist withassuring an optimum match of genetics to ranch resources.

Genetics improvement system 180 may also compare the herd specificationsto expected differences in the correlation between traits at step 1220.Genetics improvement system 180 may access the database for rules andempirical relationships determined by ranchers, veterinarians and animalscience experts, or any other suitable experts. Genetics improvementsystem 180 may also determine if the specifications are conflicting. Forexample, birth weight and calving ease are inversely related. Whilebirth weight and weaning weight are positively correlated. Therefore,selection for increased growth may result in higher birth weights andmore calving difficulty. Too much emphasis on growth without regard forcalving ease may elevate dystocia and compromise the health of the calfand dam's ability to rebreed.

At step 1225, genetics improvement system 180 may present the user withan improvement strategy. The improvement strategy may includereplacement heifers, replacement bulls, sires for artificialinsemination, a planned mating system and any other suitable strategy.In another embodiment, specific gene-based testing may be performed onindividual animals to test for specific attributes such as tenderness,marbling, disease resistance, calving ease, feed to gain performance andother performance attributes. As these gene-based tests becomeavailable, they may be incorporated into genetic improvement system 180and/or the system. These gene-based tests may be used as additionalattributes in basing breeding decisions from as well as the screening ortesting of general populations of cattle for specific attributes such astenderness, marbling, or any other attributes. These genetic tests maybe performed at nearly any time in the animal's lifetime or even afterharvest at the packing plant.

In some embodiments, genetics improvement system 180 may search thedatabase for suitable sires available for the artificial inseminationwith semen for sale. These sires may be used to enhance overall herdproductively through an optimum combination of calving ease, calf growthand replacement heifer production. In another approach, geneticsimprovement system 180 may make suggestions of breed combinations thatwill enhance hybrid vigor, thus increasing fertility, and calf vigoralong with enhancing the longevity and optimum performance of thecowherd.

Genetics improvement system 180 may determine the results of the geneticimprovement process based on carcass data at step 1230. Carcass data mayinclude yield grade, quality grade, carcass weight, marbling score, etc.Genetics improvement system 180 may up-load the carcass data to thedatabase. Based on the carcass data and potentially a value-basedmarketing grid, genetics improvement system 180 may evaluate thefinancial performance of the user at step 1235. This system may furtherprovide goals and improvement strategies for future production cycles.Thus, the user may continuously improve herd quality through genetics.This may result in a significant long-term enhancement of theproductivity and overall profitability of the ranch.

In some embodiments, genetics improvement system 180 may enable a userto utilize genetics to improve the quality of an animal that hasexperienced a genetics test. For example, genetics improvement system180 may receive the results of a genetics test (e.g., a genetics testmay be performed by an authorized user and the results may becommunicated to genetics improvement system 180). Genetics improvementsystem 180 may obtain attributes of the animal from the results.Attributes may include, for example, health information, diseaseinformation, or any other suitable information.

The attributes obtained from the results of the genetics test may becompared to multiple genetics rules stored in the central database.Based on the comparison, genetics improvement system 180 may select agenetics rule. Genetics improvement system 180 may present the user witha genetics improvement strategy based on the selected genetics rule. Theimprovement strategy may include replacement heifers, replacement bulls,sires for artificial insemination, a planned mating system and any othersuitable strategy.

Genetics improvement system 180 is merely illustrative of the principlesof this invention and various modifications may be made by those skilledin the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Environmental Management System

In another suitable approach, the system may provide users withalternate methods for improving their operation, such as environmentalmanagement system 150. The system may include environmental managementsystem 150 enabling users to manage waste byproducts, monitor thequality of the environment, plan growth, access safety margins, takeappropriate corrective actions, and other suitable environmental plans.Environmental system 150 may be standalone or may be included as part ofthe system. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

In some embodiments of the present invention, environmental managementsystem 150 may provide users, such as operators of animal feedingoperations, crop growers, consultants, or any other suitable personnel,with tools for managing the environmental aspects of their operation sothat the users comply with government regulations and protect theenvironment.

FIG. 20 shows one embodiment of the environmental information collectedin environmental management system. As shown in FIG. 20, category 2200shows a typical example of the environmental information collected byenvironmental management system 150. Category 2250 may be “sourcematerial quality and quantity” and may include data 2250 about sourcematerials, such as manure, that contains nutrients. Nutrients such asnitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium may be present in source materials.

A user's livestock and operation may generate, receive, and/or handlenutrient-containing materials and by-products such as stormwater,wastewater, manure, compost, milling by-products, carcasses, irrigationwater, fertilizer, precipitation, and other materials, as shown in area2255. The user's operation may also generate air emissions from millingprocesses and lagoon microbial activity that must be monitored andmanaged. People skilled in the art will appreciate that other types ofenvironmental information may also be taken.

FIG. 21 shows a generalized flowchart of steps involved in a usercollecting environmental information with environmental managementsystem 150. At step 2005, the user may input environmental information.Environmental information may include the size of the user's land, thedistance to nearby bodies of water, the amount of manure and urine theuser has collected, analysis from laboratory work, historical land data,and any other suitable information. When a user enters incorrect datavalues (e.g., out-of-range data values, missing data values, impossibledata values, etc.) for a given parameter may be provided with a messagerequesting verification of the data value to ensure accuracy.Environmental information may be stored in the central database at step2010.

At step 2015, the system may, for example, access market valuationinformation, which may be located in the central database. Marketvaluation information may be used to determine the environmental optionsfor the user. Environmental options may include converting deadcarcasses to animal feed, using x amount of manure on the user's fields,etc. Market valuation information may be processed by, for example,adaptive reasoning system 140 or any other knowledge-based tool.Environmental management system 150 may access other systems (e.g.,adaptive reasoning system 140, integrated risk management system 125,etc.) to aid in identifying patterns, trends, or causes, andrecommending actions.

The user is provided with environmental options at step 2020. The systemmay present the user with a list, checklist, or any other suitableapproach for providing environmental options. The user may select one ormore environmental options at step 2025. In response to the userselecting one or more environmental options, the user may be providedwith the steps needed to complete the selected options (step 2030). Suchsteps may include tests that may be required at a predetermined time(e.g., once a week, once a month, periodically, etc.) for monitoringresources and the environment. For example, the user may be instructedto periodically monitor the quality of air, water, and soil on thepremises and in the surrounding areas. Such tests may depend on theuser's region, surrounding area, and the type of operation.

In some embodiments, environmental management system 150 may provide theprocess for taking the samples, conducting the tests, and/or theanalyzing the results. In another suitable approach, environmentalmanagement system 150 may recommend a certified laboratory forconducting such tests. Upon receiving the results from the laboratory,the results may be stored in the central database. On-screen guidancemay be provided to assist the user and to answer the user's questions,such as how and when to conduct required environmental testing (e.g.,mandated by a regulatory agency).

The system may provide reminders to users about the need to complete arequired activity, such as inspecting and recording lagoon liquidlevels, servicing equipment, sampling a well or collecting an airquality sample. Upon entering the environmental information, the usermay access the database, for example, via the Internet and store thedata. The user may also print and/or send completed forms to others andquery the database. When the user does not comply with a regulation or arequired corrective action, the system may provide the user with awarning and/or remedial actions.

In some embodiments, source materials may need to be collected, stored,transported, and removed or utilized properly without pollutinggroundwater, surface water, or other natural resources. These sourcematerials may have a nutrient value and may be used as fertilizer forcrops or forage, or any other suitable use. In some embodiments,laboratory testing and analysis may be required for determining thenutrient value (quality) of the source materials. The environmentalinformation gained from the analysis of source materials may be storedin the central database. In another suitable approach, users may inputenvironmental information regarding the amount (quantity) of sourcematerials that are collected, stored, transported, removed, andutilized. Upon collecting environmental information, users (e.g.,operators, consultants, etc.) may query the central database via theInternet to access the environment information, such as the nutrientvalue (quality) of source material and the information about thequantity of source material that has been collected, stored, transportedand removed or land applied.

In some embodiments, source materials may be applied on land applicationareas to provide nutrients for crops or forage. The land may be or maynot be owned or controlled by the user. Environmental information onsource material quality and quantity data may be integrated withenvironmental information on land application areas to determine theamount of nutrients spread on fields, and ensure nutrients areappropriately applied. However, any other suitable approach or otherintegration of information may also be performed.

Some embodiments may provide an application for land application areamanagement, as shown in category 2260 of FIG. 20. Information about landapplication areas may be generated and inputted by a user. Environmentalinformation 2265, such as soil and plant nutrient levels and recommendednutrient application rates, may be received and retrieved fromlaboratories, the user, and other suitable person or facility. The usermay input environmental information regarding land application areacharacteristics, such as location and yield history of the land. Theuser may also input environmental information associated with the typeof crop or forage being grown, the yield goal, the timing, amount, andquality of nutrient source material(s) that have been applied, and othercharacteristics. Environmental information associated with landapplication area management may be integrated with environmentalinformation associated with source material quality and quantity todetermine nutrient information. In some embodiments of the invention,users may select specific parameters (e.g., yield goal, etc.) and viewintegrated information, utilizing comparisons between the chosenparameters. Users may be provided with guidelines. For example, usersmay be provided with explanations of regulations governing aspects ofthe operation, such as “since soil in land application area no. 1 has anaverage of X pounds of phosphorus per acre, you should not apply morethan Y pounds of manure.”

Some embodiments may aid a user to comply with government regulations.The user may complete and send required forms to regulatory agencies,such as nutrient management on land application areas. The forms may bestored in the central database, sorted, and utilized to verify pastcompliance and future plans. In some embodiments, government agenciesmay utilize environmental management system 150 and/or the centraldatabase to receive, store, sort, and compile information from one ormore users.

Some embodiments of environmental management system 150 may provide auser with a mapping feature 2270. Mapping feature 2270 may includeelectronically displayed maps relating to the physical characteristicsof the user's operation. Maps may represent one or more aspects of theuser's operation, such as locations of lagoons, and allow the user tomodify (e.g., add, change, remove) items on a map and the environmentalinformation associated with the items.

In some embodiments, the mapping feature 2270 of environmentalmanagement system 150 may utilize a geographic information system (GIS),as shown in area 2275. This system consists of layers ofcategory-specific data represented spatially. Environmental managementsystem 150 may access, for example, publicly available spatialgeographic data via the Internet, as well as privately derived data.Layers may include facility layout, land application areas, wastetransport infrastructure, manure stockpiles, and any data associatedwith physical characteristics represented on maps, including laboratoryanalysis results. For example, a layer may include land applicationfields associated with the operation that were spread with nutrients,together with data on nutrient concentration levels, crop type and yieldgoal, soil and plant nutrient levels, the nutrient threshold for thecrop, and other information. In this embodiment, the user may be enabledto monitor the cumulative amount of inputs, such as nutrients and water,applied to fields and the remaining amounts needed to achieve productionand environmental goals.

Map data may be represented in numeric and graphic format. The user mayview data associated with a physical point of interest graphically andsort based on specific criteria to create a map that displays andcompares points of interest and their affiliated data properties.

Environmental management system 150 may access other systems (e.g.,adaptive reasoning system 140, integrated risk management system 125,compliance enforcement system 155, etc.) to aid in identifying patterns,trends, or causes, and recommending specific actions. The system may,for example, communicate with an accounting system to compare the valueof nutrients in manure versus the market price of commercial fertilizerto determine which product is most economical to use at the currenttime.

As shown in FIG. 20, category 2280 is a typical example of thecategories of operational maintenance practices that may be stored andutilized in environmental management system 150. In some embodiments,the user may be provided with maintenance practices, as shown in area2285. Practices may include approaches for controlling flies, dust,pests, odor, and other nuisances. Environmental management system 150may provide messages (e.g., on-screen messages) to prompt the user intofilling out a prescribed maintenance form and completing an action item.For example, if source materials are transported from the user'soperation to another location, the system may prompt the user tocomplete a form describing the amount of time, the date, the amount ofmaterial hauled, the name of the person receiving it, the location whereit was applied, and other suitable information. At a predetermined time(e.g., at the end of the year), the user may then utilize environmentalmanagement system 150 to compile and summarize this information, andsend it to the appropriate regulatory agencies.

Maintenance records may also include emergency plan templates andguidance to be completed by the user to plan for contingencies, such asa lagoon breach or a fuel spills. In another approach, the user maycomplete the proper forms to be utilized by management and theappropriate regulatory agencies. Completed forms may be sent (e.g.,electronically or physically) to government agencies to providedocumentation that required activities have been executed. Informationcontained in these forms may be stored in the database. In someembodiments, government agencies may utilize environmental managementsystem 150 and the central database to receive, archive, sort, andmanage environmental information and other suitable information fromusers.

In another suitable approach, when a user's operation closes, the usermay be responsible for cleanup of any material on the property subjectto regulation. The present invention may provide for a template andguidance to assist the user in developing a closure plan. The system mayprovide archiving of the completed plan, and occasional reminders toverify that the plan is current.

The system may also allow the user's environmental information to beincluded with other information stored on individual animal's EID tag.For example, weather data associated with an animal's stay at a givenuser's facility or transport conditions such as time and mileagetransported may be included on the EID. The user may use thisinformation for health and performance analyses purposes.

In some embodiments, environmental management system 150 may provide theuser with quality assurance and quality control information pertainingto collecting, handling, storing, transporting and testing environmentaloptions (e.g., environmental testing option 2290). Such options mayinclude all of the source materials shown in Category 2200, as well asair, groundwater, surface water, and soil quality (e.g., as shown inarea 2295). The system may describe the specific equipment andprocedures needed to insure that the final test results are valid. Thismay include a list of the collection supplies needed, the steps thatmust be followed to obtain a representative sample, sample storage andtransportation issues, and testing procedures. The system may recommendthat some parameters be tested by a certified laboratory. In someembodiments, the system may provide government-specified regulatoryquality assurance/quality control measures to be taken by the user.

Environmental management system 150 is merely illustrative of theprinciples of this invention. Those skilled in the art may makemodifications without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention.

Adaptive Logistics System

In another suitable approach, the system may include, for example,adaptive logistics system 135 to enable users with efficient managing ofshipping and logistics upon purchasing animals. Adaptive logisticssystem 135 may obtain information from the central database to deliveranimals from multiple sales locals and facilities. Adaptive logisticssystem 135 may be standalone or may be included as part of the system.Any other suitable approach may also be used.

Typically, feedlots, ranchers, backgrounders, and other members of thesupply chain must manage their own shipping transactions. For example, arancher may sell a truckload of animals to a feedlot, and the rancherand feedlot manager must determine how to ship the animals. Typically,the shipping transactions are not integrated into the other managementsystems within their overall operation.

FIG. 22 is an illustrative flowchart of steps involved in obtainingadaptive logistics information. At step 900, adaptive logistics system135 may provide a user (e.g., a rancher) with an opportunity to make atransaction with another user (e.g., a buyer on “Cattleinfonet” or anyother buyer). For example, a rancher may desire to sell one or moreanimals to a buyer. Adaptive logistics information can be obtained atstep 905. “Cattleinfonet” or any other suitable marketplace may send acommunication to adaptive logistics system 135. At step 910, adaptivelogistics system 135 may receive the communication from the marketplace.The communication may include shipping details, which may includepick-up location, drop-off locations, number of animals to be picked up,total weight, time of pick-up, expected weather conditions, and/or anyother suitable shipping details.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of illustrative steps involved in shippinganimals using adaptive logistics system 135. At step 920, adaptivelogistics system 135 may monitor shipping patterns. Monitoring shippingpatterns may include monitoring the performance, various routes, themortality rate, the animal handling skills, and the cleanliness ofvarious truckers.

Upon making a transaction, adaptive logistics system 135 may determinethe shipping availability by identifying available truckers based ontheir proximity to the pick-up and drop-off locations and pastperformance record at step 930. That is, adaptive logistics system 135may allow the user to view one or more shipping arrangements. At step940, adaptive logistics system 135 may determine the shippingarrangement by suggesting one of the available truckers based on minimumtransportation cost, minimum animal stress, minimum mortality rate,maximum truck revenue miles, etc. Adaptive logistics system 135 may alsooptimize the transport of animals between, for example, eMergefacilities or assimilation sites, suppliers, and/or customers as shownin FIG. 24. The criteria for optimization may change with differentcustomers and business needs.

Adaptive logistics system 135 may also provide the user with anotification of the selected shipping arrangement. In some embodiments,adaptive logistics system 135 may allow the user to view the status ofthe shipment. For example, the user may track the shipment and view theapproximate location of the shipment.

At step 950, the animals and/or commodities may be transported. Adaptivelogistics system 135 may allow users (e.g., customers) to providefeedback at step 960. Feedback may be provided in terms of condition ofanimals, animal shrinkage during shipment, mortality rate, morbidityrate, transportation time, on-time pickup and delivery, and any othersuitable feedback. Feedback may be entered and stored in the centraldatabase, which may share this adaptive logistics information with theother systems and/or users.

Adaptive logistics system 135 may further determine a shippingarrangement for the return trip. Typically, a trucker may ship an animalor commodity to the user and return with an empty truck. Adaptivelogistics system 135 may optimize the trip by determining animals and/orcommodities that may be delivered on a return trip.

Adaptive logistics system 135 may further identify suitable locationsfor new facilities, such as eMerge facilities, assimilation sites, orany other facility, based on transportation data and committedtransactions for future livestock purchases and deliveries at step 970.Based on future orders and projections, adaptive logistics system 135may forecast future trucking needs so that fleet adjustments may bemade. These adjustments may be made on a route, regional, and/or statebasis. Users may also be provided with opportunities to track theprogress of any shipment by, for example, accessing a web page via theInternet, via a wireless PDA system, or using any other suitableapproach.

In FIG. 24, eMerge facility 980 may be an intermediary. As anintermediary, eMerge facility 980 may track transactions completed byusers (e.g., buyers, consumers, etc.). For example, a transaction mayoccur when rancher 982 sells cattle to backgrounder 986. In anotherexample, rancher 982 may transport his or her cattle to feedlot 988.eMerge facility 980 may receive revenue from rancher 982, backgrounder986, and/or feedlot 988. eMerge facility 980 may contact availabletrucker 984 to perform the transfer of animals. eMerge facility 980 maymaintain a list of available truckers for transporting animals and anyother suitable commodities.

In some embodiments of the present invention, adaptive logistics system135 may provide users with opportunities to design trailers suitable fortransporting a variety of commodities. For example, a user may desire todesign a trailer that transports livestock on outbound trips and haulfeed (e.g., hay, corn, silage, or any other suitable commodity) on thereturn trip. Thus, adaptive logistics system 135 may increase truckrevenue miles and thereby lower overall livestock shipping costs.

Although this embodiment uses the example of shipping from a rancher toa feedlot, adaptive logistics system 135 may also manage transactionssuch as shipments from a ranch to an assimilation facility, shipmentsfrom a background to an assimilation facility, drop shipments from abackgrounder to a feedlot, shipments from an assimilation facility to afeedlot, shipments from an assimilation facility to a backgrounder, orany other suitable transaction. Adaptive logistics system 135 is merelyillustrative of the principles of this invention. Those skilled in theart may make modifications without departing from the scope and spiritof the invention.

Supply And Demand Management System

Users, such as buyers and sellers of animals, may desire to manage theirsales and acquisitions. The system may include supply and demandmanagement system 170, which provides a user with the capability ofviewing supply and demand orders, filling orders, searching for animalswith specific criteria, and managing future purchase agreements. Supplyand demand management system 170 may be standalone or may be included aspart of the system. Any other suitable approach may also be used.

In some embodiments of the present invention, supply and demandmanagement system 170 may provide users with a real-time inventory ofanimals (supply) along with current and future orders (demand). Forexample, this may include animals at assimilation sites, auctions barns,and ranches committed to supply animals under long-term purchaseagreements. One or more buyers and/or sellers may access supply anddemand system via the Internet, through a virtual private networksystem, or using any other suitable approach. Orders may be placed onsupply and demand management system 170 for future requirements and maybe viewed by prospective sellers.

In some embodiments, supply and demand management system 170 may guidethe user (e.g., a buyer or a seller) through a series of interactivedisplays designed to share trading information on the animals and assistin making a transaction and to better manage their inventory. Tradinginformation may include price, cost and desired sale price (markup) fora particular day as well as future requirements. Other information onthe specific animal or lot of animals may also be made available such asgenetic, health, process, age, and any other suitable information.Access to trading information may be limited to users with propersecurity clearance.

In some embodiments, supply and demand management system 170 may allow auser to manage orders for multiple animals. Supply and demand managementsystem 170 may allow a user to enter attributes of each of the multipleanimals into the central database. In some embodiments, supply anddemand management system 170 may access beef marketing programrequirements in the central database. To determine which animals complywith the program requirements, supply and demand management system 170may compare the entered attributes to the program requirements.

Based at least in part on the comparison, supply and demand managementsystem 170 may automatically facilitate at least one transaction betweenmultiple users. In some embodiments, the multiple users may be atdifferent locations. For example, when a user desires to purchase twentycattle, supply and demand management system 170 may determine whichcattle meet the user's requirements and may purchase the cattle frommultiple users (e.g., ten cattle from one user and ten cattle fromanother). When a transaction has been completed, supply and demandmanagement system 170 may update the inventory of animals.

Illustrative user interface approaches are described below. While theapproaches are described separately, their features may be combined inany suitable way, modified in accordance with the other approaches, orperformed instead of or in addition to the features described. Thecategories may be interchanged where suitable. Any other suitablecombination, substitution or exchange of features between the interfaceapproaches described herein, or with any other suitable interfaceapproach, may also be used.

FIG. 25 is an illustrative display screen 2400 that the presentinvention may display when providing access to inventory or orderinformation. In this example, display 2400 shows the animals at eachfacility and sorted into weight categories 2405. Categories 2410, suchas heifers and steers, may be used to further segment each weightcategory. For each inventory area 2415, display 2400 may provide userswith the average animal cost 2420, number of animals available 2425, andthe expected sale price for the day 2430. The selling price may beupdated, for example, daily by local sales management or be controlledvia an adaptive reasoning system as described herein. The markup pricemay reflect the market demand and may also reflect the appropriatefutures or commodity prices for the livestock. The invention presentsthe user with markup price 2430 and average animal cost 2420 to providethe user with the revenue potential for a transaction. Display 2400 mayalso include date 2401 and time 2402 and location.

In some embodiments, supply and demand management system 170 may providethe user with flexibility to fill an order from one or more facilities.For example, for a large order, a user may pool the animals fromdifferent facilities and coordinate their deliveries to the customer. Inanother approach, a user (e.g., a seller) may be able to satisfy anotheruser's (e.g., customer's, buyer's, etc.) price constraint with animalsfrom another facility (e.g., a sister facility) that may have a loweraverage cost or markup price than the user's facility.

In some embodiments, supply and demand management system 170 maydetermine the average cost of the animals in an inventory category. Forexample, supply and demand management system 170 may implement arecursive relationship to compute the average cost of the animals in aninventory category. In a purchase transaction, the animals in weightcategory 2405 may be bought as a group. As new animals are added toinventory category 2415, the average animal cost is adjusted as per thefollowing equations:C _(avgnew)=(C _(avgold) *N _(old) +C _(add))/(N _(old) +N _(add))N _(new) =N _(old) +N _(add)where: C_(avgnew) is the new average cost;

-   -   C_(avgold) is the old average cost;        -   N_(old) is the number of animals in the group before            additions;    -   N_(add) is the number of animals added to the group;    -   N_(new) is the number of animals in the group after additions;        and    -   C_(add) is the cost of animals added to the group.        However, when a group of animals is sold, the average cost of        the remaining animals in the inventory category does not change.        The number of animals in the group is adjusted using the        following equations:        C_(avgnew)=C_(avgold)        N _(new) =N _(old) −N _(sold)        where N_(sold) is the number of animals sold from the group.        When an order is booked, the animals may be reserved, and the        data as shown in FIG. 25 may be updated at a predetermined time        (e.g., immediately, periodically, every hour, every day, etc.).        Preferably, display 2400 is updated immediately to prevent over        committing to other users (customers).

Although display 2400 is illustrated with the same inventory groupnomenclature for itemizing animals, this is merely illustrative of theprinciples of this invention and various modifications may be made bythose skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe invention. In some embodiments, the present invention may requirethat all facilities within supply and demand management system 170 groupanimals in a standard manner as shown in FIG. 25. In order to simplifycosting and minimize administrative tasks, the present invention maydesire that purchase orders and sale orders also use the same inventorygroup nomenclature as the facilities for itemizing animals.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the user may customizedisplay 2400. In one suitable approach, a user (a seller) may desire toonly deal with feedlots. The user's customers may desire to buy animalsbetween 650 and 750 lbs. and animals that are raised in a specific partof the country. In such a case, the user may choose to display animalsin the weight categories 651-700 and 701-750 and from facilities fromthat geographical area.

In another approach, supply and demand management system 170 may providethe user with an interface for viewing demand orders, similar to theinterface shown in FIG. 25. For example, a display (not shown) maypresent the animals needed at each facility and purchasing criteria. Auser (e.g., buyer) may post on the display the number of animals neededby weight, the desired number of heifers and steers, and the expectedprice to pay for an animal. As in display 2400, the expected price maybe updates. Allowing users to view demand orders may, for example,enable users (e.g., producers) to observe market projections and adjusttheir operations accordingly.

In response to submitting demand orders, supply and demand managementsystem 170 may search for facilities that produce animals matching theuser's purchasing criteria. Users may be notified when their demandorders are matched. Upon receiving a notification, users may placefuture purchase agreements. These future purchase agreements may beentered and stored in the central database.

Some embodiments may include a real-time online display of futurepurchase agreements entered by supply and demand management system 170.The real-time display may show the agreed price, the expected weightcategories, the number of animals per weight category, the time ofarrival of each batch of animals, the deposit paid to the rancher, andthe amount of payment due upon receipt of all the animals. In anothersuitable approach, the real-time display may show future deliveriescommitted to customers by supply and demand management system 170. Thedisplay may show the agreed price, the weight categories of animals tobe delivered, the number of animals per weight category, the depositreceived from customer, the delivery date, and the amount of paymentexpected upon shipment of animals to the customer.

In some embodiments, the real-time displays may be used to manage cashflow and control inventory proactively on a system wide basis. Forexample, limits may be placed on total number of animals per weightcategory at each facility. Once this limit is reached for a categorythen no user may be permitted to buy any more animals in that weightcategory for that facility. Also, the company may have a cap on thetotal inventory value of all animals in supply and demand managementsystem 170 for a facility. Once this limit is reached, management at thefacility may be required to reassess the market conditions, stop allpurchase transactions, and adjust markup prices. The real-time on-linedisplays may also be used to assess the cash flow from cattletransactions on a daily basis, keep track of interest rates, and securebetter financing terms from agricultural banks or other financialinstitutions.

In some embodiments, the present invention may also be used to determinethe shipping requirements, shipping costs, and determine the necessaryadjustments or arrangements with trucking companies. This may be on aregional, county, state, or national level. The shipping requirementsdetermined by the present invention may be, for example, uploaded toadaptive logistics system 153 or any other suitable logistics system.

In some embodiments, the user may be provided with one or more programs(e.g., software) and information via the Internet to allow users topresent the data in the form of charts, tables, and customized reports.Such programs may enable the user to make timely and informed decisionson inventory related matters.

Supply and demand management system 170 is merely illustrative of theprinciples of this invention. Those skilled in the art may makemodifications without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention.

Electronic Commerce System

In another approach, the system may provide users with additionalmethods of managing their sales and acquisitions. The system may includeelectronic commerce system 190 which may provide a user with thecapability of purchasing, selling, and viewing animals over theInternet. Electronic commerce system 190 may be standalone or may beincluded as part of the system. Any other suitable approach may also beused.

The livestock management system creates an information infrastructurefor monitoring livestock and related transactions throughout the supplychain. This information may assist users desiring to trade livestock,products, commodities, and services on the Internet. For example, theanimals in the Livestock Management System may be sold on the Internetthrough portals like “Cattleinfonet.” Pharmaceuticals, feed, spareparts, and other materials may also be ordered through web sites on theInternet. Electronic commerce system 190 may lower cost, reducetransactions, trim lead times, increase product availability, identifynew sources and options, and improve the overall efficiency of a user'soperation in the livestock supply chain. FIG. 26 shows one embodiment ofelectronic commerce system 190.

Electronic commerce system 190 may be a catalog auction, a marketplace,an online brokerage, a real-time sale barn, auction, a product catalog,an online commodity futures trading, etc. Electronic commerce system 190may be part of or communicate with other systems, such as adaptivereasoning system 140, adaptive logistics system 135, environmentalmanagement system 150, sorting system 130, tracking system 145,integrated risk management system 125, or any other suitable system.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may be an onlinecatalog auctions 2610, which may, for example, solicit bids on animallots available for immediate or future deliveries. Catalog auctions 2610may provide global market coverage for a user, such as a seller. Animallots may be listed to provide information, such as animal weight, breedmix, preconditioning, quantity and breakdown by sex, slide, expecteddelivery date, pickup location, and any other information to a user(e.g., a buyer). Pictures (e.g., taken by a digital camera) and videofootage may be provided for browsing. A time limit may be set (e.g., bya seller, by electronic commerce system 190, etc.) for accepting a bid.In one suitable approach, the user's asking price and the currenthighest bidding price may be listed and continuously updated. The usermay change the asking price at any time during the auction time limit.At the end of the time limit, the user may accept the highest bid or optto auction his or her animals later at the same or different web site.Electronic commerce system 190 may charge a fee for hosting the auctionand may collect a commission fee if a lot is sold. Manufacturers andservice providers may also advertise or auction their products andservices on electronic commerce system 190. However, any other suitableapproach may also be used.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may be a sale barnauction system 2615. Sale barn auction system 2615 may be a real-timesale barn auction. Sale barn auction system 2615 may, for example,provide a national audience for auctions at local sale barns. A user maybid for animals via the Internet in real-time for animals beingauctioned at a local sale barn. As shown in FIG. 26, barn 2617, barn2618, and barn 2619 are sale barns that may be connected to sale barnauction system 2615 for real-time auctioning. For real-time auctioning,live video and voice data may be provided to the user by streaming themover the Internet. One or more sale barn auctions (e.g., severalreal-time sale barn auctions) may be in progress at one time. Forexample, a user (e.g., a buyer) may attend an auction from the user'slocation and change channels to observe another location or venue.

Sale barn auction system 2615 may also provide a larger audience ofbuyers to a sale barn. For example, for the local producer, thereal-time sale barn auction may have more buyers bidding on his animalsversus being limited to few buyers physically present at the sale barn.Sale barn auction system 2615 may provide a local sale barn to use salebarn auction system 2615 to create a national reputation for sellingspecific type of cattle. For example, a sale barn may have real-timeauctions for animals certified to a high quality health, nutrition, andmanagement program. Animals raised under these programs may have aproven track record for superior performance at feedlots. A largeraudience of buyers for these special auctions may bring a higher pricefor these animals. As a result, a producer may prefer to sell hisanimals through a sale barn with real-time auction capability. Sale barnauctions system 2615 may require users to install additional hardwareand software on their computer systems. They may also require a directhigh-speed satellite link or any suitable communications link.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may serve as arepository of supplier product catalogs and technical data. Users mayaccess these catalogs to gain product information, make purchasedecisions, order spare parts, use technical data for problem solving,configuring new equipment, and/or designing and developing new systems.Suppliers may pay a fee for hosting their catalogs on electroniccommerce system 190. In another approach, suppliers may also pay acommission on products and services purchased by a user throughelectronic commerce system 190.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may be a marketplace2620. Marketplace 2620 may provide products and services to users andserve as the purchasing agent. For example, marketplace 2620 may be aone-stop storefront for products and services used by ranches andfeedlots. For example, marketplace 2620 may offer lower prices than somelocal sellers. Marketplace 2620 may also consolidate the purchases formanufacturers and provide them a wider sales reach. Marketplace 2620 mayoffer several competing brands. A user may receive a volume discountbased on the user's total purchase as compared to a discount from thevolume purchase of one specific item. For example, marketplace 2620 mayrequire the user to have a credit approval to purchase items that may beneeded for the user's operation as opposed to several credit agreementswith sellers and vendors. Marketplace 2620 may also assist in financingthe purchases at a lower rate through a special arrangement withfinancial institutions, farm cooperatives, credit unions, oragricultural banks.

Marketplace 2620 may offer services for veterinarian clinics, processingcrews, pest control, nutrition analysis, or ultrasound at feedlots forendpoint management. In another approach, marketplace 2620 may assist inidentifying service providers near a user. Marketplace 2620 may have anetwork of preferred providers of veterinary services (veterinarians andclinics) for providing services such as spaying, pregnancy checking,fertility testing, or calls for treating a sick animal. These preferredproviders may be under contract with marketplace 2620. In response tocontracting a service from a service provider, marketplace 2620 may, forexample, assist in scheduling service calls and may dispatch a serviceprovider under contract with marketplace 2620. The provided service maybe at rates lower than local commercial rates. Marketplace 2620 may havea franchise network of service providers in order to promote practicesand products, and control consistency and quality of service provided.For example, the franchise ultrasound service may assist a feedlotmanager in endpoint management. This may include sorting the animals onthe basis of days on feed determined from measurements for back-fatthickness and marbling, corn prices, and market conditions. This servicemay recommend the market grid for selling these animals and theirexpected quality and yield grades. The days on feed information mayassist the feedlot manager in scheduling shipments to a packer and avoidhaggling with the packer order buyer on how much longer to feed theanimals before shipping.

Electronic commerce system 190 may include content management system2625, which may provide agricultural- and livestock-related news andsummaries necessary for making operational decisions consistent withmarket conditions. News and summaries may include cattle and crop news,commodity prices at various mercantile exchanges like the ChicagoMercantile Exchange, commentaries from veterinarians, animal scientists,epidemiologists, nutritionist, and extension people on a current topic,legislation in progress at state and federal governments, weather, andexport markets. Content management system 2625 may provide users withlinks such as the “hot agricultural topics of the day” like BovineSpongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), beef check-off, grazing rights onfederal lands, etc. Content management system 2625 may also provide chatsites to facilitate education and communication between producers andindustry experts. Content management system 2625 may host onlineeducation sessions on topics like risk management, ranch management,genetics, good management practices, etc.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may includecommodities futures system 2605. Commodities futures system 2605,integrated risk management system 125, a combination of the two, or anyother suitable risk management system may provide risk managementoptions to the users (e.g., farmers, ranchers, etc.) in the livestockindustry. For example, a rancher may enter futures contracts on severalcommodities such that the combined package is optimal for the rancher'soperation. Commodities futures system 2605 may identify commoditytraders (e.g., by proximity, by cost, etc.). In another approach,commodities futures system 2605 may compile a network of preferredcommodity traders and/or brokers that may offer futures trading for oneor more commodities used in the livestock industry. The commodities mayinclude cattle, corn, soy, milo, alfalfa, silage, fuel (diesel, naturalgas, propane, and distillate), and transportation (rail or truck).

As discussed above, electronic commerce system 190 may also be a part ofor communicate with (e.g., be linked to) supply and demand managementsystem 170, integrated risk management system 125, and/or any othersuitable system. For example, a user may access supply and demandmanagement system 170 or any other suitable system to obtain a user'sinventory of animals. This may assist users in the livestock industrywith, for example, assessing the availability of animals, and planningproduction and marketing strategies. Users may desire to access tointegrated risk management system 125 through electronic commerce system190. Integrated risk management system 125 may provide users with, forexample, an interface with an online expert (e.g., via voice, text,etc.) or an expert system (knowledge-based tool) to determine a strategyfor minimizing financial risks of the users (e.g., a breakevenanalysis). For example, the strategy may include a mix of forwardcontracting, futures contracts, call/put options, private treaties, andleasing.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may assist a user inpurchasing livestock relating to a selected beef marketing program(e.g., Angus beef) based on information collected in the centraldatabase. Electronic commerce system 190 may access beef marketingprogram requirements from the central database. The informationcollected on an animal may be compared with the program requirements.Electronic commerce system 190 may provide the user with livestockpurchase decision information. Purchase decision information mayinclude, for example, compliance with specific beef marketing programs,weight information, health information, or any other suitableinformation. Such purchase decision information may assist the user topurchase the livestock and may allow the user to ensure that thepurchase livestock complies with the selected beef marketing program.

In some embodiments, electronic commerce system 190 may assist a user inselling livestock relating to a selected beef marketing program (e.g.,Angus beef) based on information collected in the central database.Electronic commerce system 190 may access beef marketing programrequirements from the central database. The information collected on ananimal may be compared with the program requirements. Electroniccommerce system 190 may provide the user with livestock sale decisioninformation. Purchase sale information may include, for example,compliance with specific beef marketing programs, weight information,health information, or any other suitable information. Such purchasesale information may assist the user to sell livestock and may allow theuser to ensure that the sold or to be sold livestock complies with theselected beef marketing program.

Electronic commerce system 190 is merely illustrative of the principlesof this invention. Those skilled in the art may make modificationswithout departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

In another approach, the system may provide users with additionalmethods for managing their operation. Based on information, such asinformation stored in the central database, the system may includeintegrated risk management system 125 which may determine risk levelsand provide users with advice on offsetting risk in their operations.Integrated risk management system 125 may be standalone or may beincluded as part of the system. Any other suitable approach may also beused.

Integrated Risk Management System

Producers in the agricultural industry may need to plan their productionalmost a year and half in advance before their products (livestock,crops, etc.) reach the market. Typically, demand for the producer'sproducts is seasonal and subject to fierce competition from alternativefood supplies. Prices for agricultural production may be affected byseveral factors beyond a producer's control. For example, livestockdemand may decline rapidly due to a change in consumer dietary habits,health warnings, a surge in imports, a decline in exports due to newtariffs, or a downturn in the domestic economy. In addition cost offeed, fuel, and other raw materials needed for agricultural productionmay be subject to seasonal price fluctuations and weather conditions.For example, drought conditions may increase cost of feed beyond whatproducers can afford. This may force producers to sell off theirlivestock to minimize loss. As another example, high fuel prices mayerode their profit margin. Integrated risk management system 125 mayprovide tools for ranchers, farmers, feedlots, and others in theagricultural industry (herein referred to as “users”) to plan for thesecontingencies. Integrated risk management system 125 may result in asubstantial gain in cost-effectiveness so that the overall financialgain of the user's operation is improved.

In some embodiments, the user may be provided with a tool for evaluatinga user's operation. Evaluating the user's operation may involve, forexample, examining operating costs, material requirements, and/or profitgoals. FIG. 27 is a generalized flowchart illustrating the stepsinvolved in process 2500 for providing the user with integrated riskmanagement tools. As shown, at step 2505, the user may be presented withan initial display (e.g., an information display, a heading screen,etc.). At step 2510, the user may be provided with an opportunity toenter one or more of the user's material inputs. This may require theuser to itemize the user's material inputs. The material inputs mayinclude feed grains, hay, alfalfa, silage, farm equipment, pastureleases, livestock, veterinary services, and any another suitablematerials. At substep 2515, the user may be provided with lists to aidwith estimating the user's costs. In some embodiments, integrated riskmanagement system 125 may provide the user with checklists and/orspreadsheets. For example, a user (e.g., a producer) may grow corn orother feed grains. The user may be required to treat this productionactivity (growing corn) as a separate business unit and may consider indetail the production cost of the user's corn. The production cost maybe compared with the corn price in the spot market, the current basis,or in the commodities futures market. Subsequently, the user may decideto either buy or sell corn in the futures market or use it internallyfor feed. In some embodiments, the cost of products sold (outputs) maybe evaluated. The products sold may include, for example, surplus grain,hay, cattle, replacement heifers, replacement bulls, culled cows orother livestock.

At step 2520, integrated risk management system 125 may benchmark auser's cost for inputs and outputs against others (e.g., in the localarea, etc.) using information in the central database. In someembodiments, benchmarking may include identifying opportunities forimprovements and cost reduction. At step 2525, information on otheruser's operation stored in central database can be obtained. At step2530, the user may be provided with an assessment on the user'soperation. That is, once all the input and output costs are estimated,integrated risk management system 125 may aid the user in, for example,breakeven analysis and assess the effect of a price variation of anyinput or output on the user's profit margin. Integrated risk managementsystem 125 may also identify commodities for which the user may needprice protection.

In some embodiments, upon assessment of the user's operation, integratedrisk management system 125 may assist a user in determining when to sellhis production. For example, a user may have the option of sellingcalves after they are weaned, backgrounded, or as fat cattle. Integratedrisk management system 125 may determine when the user should make atradeoff between a user's incremental costs, additional revenuepotential from weight gain, risk of illness and associated veterinarycosts, risk of death, price volatility, and interest income. Thisdetermination may require the user to restructure his operationdepending on market conditions and cost. For example, at some time, itmay be more profitable to sell the calves after they are weaned.However, in other years, it may be more profitable to retain ownershipof calves at a custom feedlot.

In some embodiments, integrated risk management system 125 may brokerrelationships between users in order to minimize risks. However,brokering relationships may involve the users' consent to sharefinancial data and any other data. The data may be archived and accessedvia the central database. In some embodiments, the central database maybe searched to find another user (e.g., a partner) with matching needsso that both parties can lower their risks. For example, it may bepossible to negotiate a multi-year purchase agreement between a rancherand a marketing company with commitments to a retailer. This may resultin minimizing the price volatility for the rancher and supplyuncertainty for the marketer. In another case, a manufacturer (e.g.,John Deere, Kawasaki, etc.) may reduce a user's farm equipment coststhrough a long-term lease. Manufacturers may offer their servicesthrough, for example, the marketplace feature of electronic commercesystem 190. However, any other suitable electronic commerce system mayalso be used. The online brokerage feature of electronic commerce system190 may also be used to aid in, for example, arranging a long-termprivate treaty between a rancher and a feedlot or a grain producer and agrain processor.

In some embodiments, integrated risk management system 125 may work incombination with electronic commerce system 190 or any other suitableelectronic commerce system. For example, integrated risk managementsystem 125 may link users to the content management system of electronicmanagement system 190. The user may be provided with agricultural- andlivestock-related news and summaries necessary for making operationaldecisions consistent with market conditions. The news and summaries mayinclude cattle and crop news, commodity prices at various mercantileexchanges like the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, commentaries fromveterinarians, animal scientists, epidemiologists, nutritionists, andextension people on a current topic, legislation in progress at stateand federal governments, weather reports, and export markets. Integratedrisk management system 125 may also provide the user with links to otherrelated topics, such as the “hot agricultural topics of the day” likeBovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), beef check-off, grazing rightson federal lands, etc. In some embodiments, integrated risk managementsystem 125 may provide chat sites to facilitate education andcommunication between users, for example, producers and industryexperts. In some embodiments, users may be provided with educationalresources on topics like risk management, ranch management, genetics,good management practices, etc. The educational resources may includeon-line educational sessions, broadcast lectures, etc.

In some embodiments, integrated risk management system 125 may be linkedto commodity exchanges and brokerage services. Integrated riskmanagement system 125 may also provide the user with an opportunity tobuy and sell futures contracts and commodity options (calls/puts) forone or more of the commodities used in a livestock industry. Thecommodities may include cattle, feed grains, soy, alfalfa, silage, fuel(diesel, natural gas, propane, and distillate), and transportation (railor truck). In some embodiments, the user may interface with, forexample, a commodity expert online (via voice, text, etc.) or an expertsystem/knowledge based tool. Integrated risk management system 125 mayalso provide historical data on commodity prices and any regressionmodels developed. Integrated risk management system 125 may also assistthe user in developing a financial model for his operation. Financialmodels may be used to evaluate one or more financial options in terms ofnet present value and return on investment. Subsequently, the user maydecide to buy or sell futures contracts or options on variouscommodities such that the investment package is optimal for the user'soperation.

Integrated risk management system 125 is merely illustrative of theprinciples of this invention. Those skilled in the art may makemodifications without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention.

In some embodiments, the system may provide users with methods forobtaining feedback. Based on information, such as information stored inthe central database, the system may provide consumer value system 195which may determine marketing information and provide feedback to users,such as ranchers. Consumer value system 195 may be standalone or may beincluded as part of the system. Any other suitable approach may also beused.

Consumer Value System

Producers in the agricultural industry may need to plan their productionbased on the demands of the consumer and the future markets for theirproducts. The demand for a producer's products is subject to competitionfrom other products as well as changes in the demands and desires of theconsumers and the marketplace. For example, the number of consumerspurchasing a particular type of livestock may decline when news about aparticular disease begins to spread, potentially negatively impactingthe consumption of that particular livestock protein. In someembodiments, producers may need to plan their production based on otherproducers or users (e.g., ranchers). For example, a feedlot may want tostop buying a specific breed of cow from the producer when theproducer's cows do not meet performance expectations (e.g.,underperforms). The system may provide consumer value system 195, whichmay result in a substantial gain in cost-effectiveness so that theoverall financial gain of the user's operation is improved by the use ofinformation. Such information may include specific time and locationproduct demands, past performance of animals a user is considering topurchase, benchmarked performance of animals as they flow through thesupply chain, etc.

In some embodiments, the user may be provided with a tool for evaluatinga user's product. Such tools may include software (e.g., enabled by theInternet), hardware, or any other suitable tool for evaluating theuser's product. Evaluating the user's product may involve, for example,examining feedback from buyers, feedback from consumers, marketing andsales information, etc. FIG. 28 is a generalized flowchart illustratingthe steps involved in providing the user with consumer valueinformation. As shown, at step 2705, the user may be provided with anopportunity to enter attributes relating to an individual animal.Attribute information may include the branded beef program that the userhas complied or enrolled with, genetics information, marbling score, andany other suitable attribute or product information. Attributeinformation may be entered into the system by the user (e.g., producer).At substep 2710, attribute information may be entered by accessing andobtaining the relevant attribute information from the central database.For example, consumer value system 195 may obtain genetics informationfrom genetics improvement system 180, the central database, or otherapplicable systems within the overall management system. Consumer valuesystem 195 may access information stored in the central database or maylink to other existing applications or systems (e.g., certificationsystem 160, genetic improvement system 180, environmental managementsystem 150, tracking system 145, etc.) in the system.

In some embodiments, consumer value system 195 may allow other users(e.g., ranchers, consumers, branded beef programs, retail buyers, etc.)to provide attributes (e.g., feedback) on an individual animal (step2715). Users may provide a rating for the product. For example, when aretail outlet purchases a specific branded beef product (e.g. Angusbeef) from a packer or distributor, the user may access consumer valuesystem 195 and input the location where the user purchased the productand rate the product (e.g., rate the quality, tenderness, marbling,flavor). This information may be available to any user of the system,such as a packer, a feedlot manager, a rancher, a veterinarian, etc. Inanother example, consumer value system 195 may allow users, such asanimal buyers, to enter attributes. Those users may also provide arating for the product. In this example, users may provide feedback byrating the product based on, for example, yield expectations. Consumervalue system 195 may collect the entered attributes in the centraldatabase at step 2720.

In some embodiments, consumer value system 195 may analyze the collectedattributes using an expert system (step 2725). Upon analyzing thecollected attributes, consumer value system 195 may provide the userwith access to the analysis (step 2730), thereby assisting the user inmanaging the multiple animals based at least in part on the analysis.

In another approach, consumer value system 195 may obtain marketinginformation. Marketing information may include consumer research on theproducts that consumers are buying, the products that consumers are notbuying, seasonal fluctuations (e.g., an increase in ham purchases duringthe holidays), diseases currently affecting animals and its correlationwith sales (e.g., Foot and Mouth, Mad Cow Disease, etc.), and any othersuitable marketing information.

In some embodiments, consumer value system 195 may analyze the consumervalue information and determine the user's consumer value. Users may beprovided with one or more ratings for their product. For example, theuser may receive a quality rating, a performance rating (e.g., how theiranimal performed compared with the expected performance), flavor rating,cost rating, etc. The user may receive the consumer value informationfor their particular animal and make decisions and improvements to theiroperation. For example, if a particular product continues tounderperform and there is a diminishing market for the product, the user(producer) may decide to discontinue producing that product. In someembodiments, consumer value system 195 may identify other products forthe user (e.g. product alternatives). Upon deciding to produce otherproducts, the user may be provided with consumer value information onmore promising products. For example, if the ratings for Angus beef arehigh and the user's operation is compatible for producing Angus beef,the user may decide to raise that product. The user may decide to enrollthe user's animals in a branded beef program which may create a highervalue for these animals.

In some embodiments, consumer value system 195 may operate incombination with electronic commerce system 190, integrated riskmanagement system 125, or any other suitable system. For example,integrated risk management system 125 may provide the consumer valuesystem with agricultural- and livestock-related news and summariesnecessary for making operational decisions consistent with marketconditions. In some embodiments, consumer value system 195 may obtainpreviously entered feedback information stored in the central databaseor any other suitable system.

Consumer value system 195 is merely illustrative of the principles ofthis invention. Those skilled in the art may make modifications withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Thus, livestock management systems and methods are provided. It will beunderstood that the foregoing is only illustrative of the principles ofthe invention and that various modifications can be made by thoseskilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention, which is limited only by the claims that follow.

We claim:
 1. A computer-implemented method of sorting one or moreanimals, the method comprising: receiving one or more sales orderrequirements; electronically identifying, by a computer, one or moreanimals; receiving, by the computer, livestock shipping informationcomprising weather information and livestock mortality rate informationfor one or more possible livestock shipping routes; receiving, by thecomputer, an indication of an availability of at least one shipper forat least one of the one or more possible livestock shipping routes;sorting, by the computer, the one or more identified animals into atleast one subgroup based at least in part on (i) one or more comparisonsof the one or more sales order requirements and animal information aboutthe one or more identified animals, (ii) the livestock shippinginformation, (iii) the one or more possible livestock shipping routes,and (iv) the indication of the availability of at least one shipper; andproviding, by the computer, to a user at least one of the livestockshipping information, the one or more possible livestock shippingroutes, and the indication of the availability of at least one shipper.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising:sending one or more instructions to a controller based at least in parton the sorting, wherein the controller is configured to operate amovement mechanism.
 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1further comprising: providing subgroup information to a livestockhandler to enable the handler to physically indicate which of theanimals are in the at least one subgroup.
 4. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 3, wherein said providing comprises: transmitting thesubgroup information to the handler via a wireless device.
 5. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1 further comprising: providing auser with a result of the one or more comparisons as part of a purchasetransaction for at least one of the one or more identified animals. 6.The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprisingelectronically detecting the one or more identified animals.
 7. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the oneor more comparisons is determined by: receiving, by the computer,environmental information and transport condition information from anelectronic identification tag of each of the one or more identifiedanimals; receiving, by the computer, tracking information andcertification information related to a livestock program for each of theone or more identified animals, wherein the certification informationcomprises health, management, genetic, and nutritional information foreach of the one or more identified animals; and comparing, by thecomputer, the environmental information, transport conditioninformation, tracking information, and certification information foreach of the one or more identified animals to the one or more salesorder requirements to provide the one or more comparisons.
 8. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 7, wherein the environmentalinformation comprises weather data associated with the one or moreidentified animals' stay at a user's facility, and the transportcondition information comprises at least one of time transported andmileage transported.
 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 6,wherein electronically detecting comprises operating an ultrasoundmeasurement device.
 10. A system for sorting one or more animals, thesystem comprising: one or more computers configured to receive one ormore sales order requirements, electronically identify one or moreanimals, receive livestock shipping information comprising weatherinformation and livestock mortality rate information for one or morepossible livestock shipping routes, receive an indication of anavailability of at least one shipper for at least one of the one or morepossible livestock shipping routes, sort the one or more identifiedanimals into at least one subgroup based at least in part on (i) one ormore comparisons of the one or more sales order requirements and animalinformation about the one or more identified animals, (ii) the livestockshipping information, (iii) the one or more possible livestock shippingroutes, and (iv) the indication of the availability of at least oneshipper, and provide to a user at least one of the livestock shippinginformation, the one or more possible livestock shipping routes, and theindication of the availability of at least one shipper.
 11. The systemof claim 10, wherein the one or more computers are further configuredto: send one or more instructions to a controller based at least in parton the sorting, wherein said controller is configured to operate amovement mechanism.
 12. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or morecomputers are further configured to: provide subgroup information to alivestock handler to enable the handler to physically indicate which ofthe animals are in the at least one subgroup.
 13. The system of claim12, wherein the one or more computers are further configured to:transmit the subgroup information to the handler via a wireless device.14. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more computers arefurther configured to: operate an ultrasound measurement device.
 15. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein the one or more computers are furtherconfigured to: provide a user with access to the animal information whenthe user purchases one or more of the one or more identified animals.16. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more computers arefurther configured to electronically detect the one or more identifiedanimals.
 17. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more computersare further configured to: receive environmental information andtransport condition information from an electronic identification tag ofeach of the one or more identified animals; receive tracking informationand certification information related to a livestock program for each ofthe one or more identified animals, wherein the certificationinformation comprises health, management, genetic, and nutritionalinformation for each of the one or more identified animals; and comparethe environmental information, transport condition information, trackinginformation, and certification information for each of the one or moreidentified animals to the one or more sales order requirements toprovide the one or more comparisons.
 18. One or more computer-readablestorage media containing instructions configured to cause one or morecomputers to perform a method, the method comprising: the one or morecomputers receiving one or more sales order requirements; the one ormore computers electronically identifying one or more individual animalsof a plurality of animals based on collected information about the oneor more individual animals; the one or more computers receivinglivestock shipping information comprising weather information andlivestock mortality rate information for one or more possible livestockshipping routes; the one more computers receiving an indication of anavailability of at least one shipper for at least one of the one or morepossible livestock shipping routes; the one or more computers sortingthe plurality of animals into one or more subgroups based at least inpart on (i) one or more comparisons of the one or more sales orderrequirements and collected information,(ii) the livestock shippinginformation, (iii) the one or more possible livestock shipping routes,and (iv) the indication of the availability of at least one shipper; andthe one or more computers providing to a user at least one of thelivestock shipping information, the one or more possible livestockshipping routes, and the indication of the availability of at least oneshipper.
 19. The one or more computer-readable storage media of claim18, wherein the method further comprises: the one or more computersreceiving environmental information and transport condition informationfrom an electronic identification tag of each of the one or moreidentified animals; the one or more computers receiving trackinginformation and certification information related to a livestock programfor each of the one or more identified animals, wherein thecertification information comprises health, management, genetic, andnutritional information for each of the one or more identified animals;and the one or more computers comparing the environmental information,transport condition information, tracking information, and certificationinformation for each of the one or more identified animals to the one ormore sales order requirements to provide the one or more comparisons.